National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Chief Bode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to reconsider his ambition of running for the presidency in 2027.
Instead, George advocates for the PDP to field a candidate from the southern region of Nigeria.
George’s call comes amid growing discussions within the PDP regarding the party’s presidential candidate for the next general elections.
He stressed the importance of upholding the principles of zoning and rotation, which are enshrined in the PDP’s constitution, to ensure justice, fairness, and equity within the party.
“In 2027, Atiku will be 81 years old. This is the time for him to embrace the wisdom of allowing the younger generation to take the reins of leadership,” George stated, drawing a parallel with U.S. President Joe Biden potentially stepping aside for Kamala Harris.
George further argued that since former President Muhammadu Buhari, who is from the North, held office for eight years, it is now the turn of the South to produce the next president. “Our party’s constitution is clear on this matter. Power must shift to the South in 2027,” he affirmed.
He also suggested that if Atiku remains committed to his presidential ambitions, he should consider waiting until 2031, when he would be 85 years old.
George cautioned that any actions contrary to the principles of zoning could jeopardise the unity of the party and the stability of the nation’s political landscape.
Responding to a recent accusation by Atiku’s media adviser, who labelled him a tribal bigot, George dismissed the claim as unfounded.
He reiterated his commitment to national unity and his loyalty to the PDP, emphasising the need to respect the zoning principles established by the party’s founding fathers in 1998.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the PDP faces critical decisions that will shape the party’s future and potentially influence the direction of Nigeria’s democracy.
