Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has said the internal turmoil within the party may have pushed Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke into what he described as a hasty and desperate departure from the PDP.
Addressing journalists in Lagos on Tuesday, George argued that the uncertainty surrounding the party’s national leadership created conditions that could force any embattled member into extreme decisions. He insisted, however, that Adeleke’s resignation reflected a personal bid for political survival amid the wider crisis.
The PDP elder statesman also issued a strong appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to call the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to order, warning that failure to do so could endanger Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Speaking during a briefing titled “State of the Nation – Dear Mr President, Our Nation is Wobbling Politically,” George condemned what he termed the growing abuse of power across political institutions. He cited the disruption at the PDP national secretariat on November 18 as a troubling example.
According to him, the actions of a group previously expelled for anti-party activities, allegedly emboldened by a serving federal minister, amounted to an attack on lawful authority and a direct threat to multi-party democracy.
“The attempt to prevent a duly elected leadership from assuming office was unlawful and symptomatic of a broader, dangerous pattern,” George said. “As a life member of the PDP Board of Trustees, I maintain that anyone wishing to leave the party is free to go. A political party, like a tree, grows stronger when unhealthy branches fall away.”
He questioned why the PDP secretariat was shut down without approval from the newly elected national chairman, Alhaji Iliya Damagum Turaki, describing the action as further evidence of internal sabotage.
Turning his warning to President Tinubu, George asked: “Is this democracy as envisioned by the Constitution, or are we drifting toward governance practices that contradict its spirit?” He added that repeated disregard for due process undermines public trust and threatens national cohesion.
“Nigeria stands at a crossroads,” he said. “If the current trajectory is not halted, it risks plunging the nation into deeper political instability. Power is not eternal, and leaders must act with humility and responsibility.”
George also cautioned Wike, reminding him of the PDP’s role in his political ascent, from local government chairman to governor and minister. He warned that the FCT minister’s recent actions could damage the same institution that shaped his career.
“Power is temporary; reputation is permanent,” he said. “Do not allow yourself to be used as an instrument to destabilise the Republic. History teaches that weakened institutions create openings for chaos. Nigeria does not deserve such a path.”
