Former Southwest Vice Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, Chief Olabode George, has declared that the party remains resilient despite its current internal crisis.
Speaking as a guest on Arise TV, the PDP Board of Trustees member dismissed suggestions of the party’s imminent collapse, likening it to an ‘Iroko tree’—a symbol of strength in African culture.
George expressed dismay over recent actions by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whom he described as his “political son.” He strongly criticized Wike for locking up the PDP’s premises, calling the act “sacrilegious, unacceptable, and culturally inadmissible.”
“Regarding the locking up of our party’s premises, it is absolutely sacrilegious, unacceptable, and culturally inadmissible,” George said.
He emphasized that the PDP played a crucial role in Wike’s political rise, providing him platforms to serve as local government chairman, chief of staff, minister, and governor. George drew a sharp analogy, comparing Wike’s actions to “returning to your village and locking up your father’s house.”
The PDP chieftain argued that Wike could have resolved the matter privately, such as paying the N7.9 million ground rent owed on the property, rather than escalating it publicly.
“Imagine discovering that some ground rent hasn’t been paid, and as the chairman of the local government, you could easily settle the debt, a mere N7.9 million, especially when it concerns your father’s property,” George stated.
He warned that such behavior damages the PDP’s reputation and urged Wike to reflect on his legacy, reminding him that his tenure as minister is temporary.
George also addressed Wike’s public statements about delivering the FCT and Rivers State to President Bola Tinubu, questioning the ethics of such declarations. He stressed that Nigerians are observant and that political power ultimately belongs to the people.
“If you wish to leave, no one can stop you. However, continually proclaiming that the president has tasked you with delivering the FCT and Rivers State to him, is that the way to win hearts and minds?” George asked.
Despite the internal strife, George remains optimistic about the PDP’s future. He highlighted the party’s historical achievements, including the creation of six geopolitical zones and ensuring minority representation in national leadership. He urged members to honor the legacy of founding fathers like Alex Ekwueme, who remained loyal despite personal losses.
“The PDP is like an Iroko tree, strong and unshakable. There is no political party in this country with a more robust structure than the PDP,” George declared.
He revealed that the Saraki committee, tasked with resolving the party’s issues, is still working, with progress made in recent meetings. George called for unity and corrective action, asserting that no individual can claim ownership of the PDP.
“There is nothing personal in this party, and no individual can claim it as their private fiefdom. Never,” he emphasized.
Reaffirming the PDP’s enduring strength, George urged members to focus on rebuilding and preserving the party’s legacy for future generations.
“What do we want to leave for the younger generations? We must reflect on our legacy and ensure the PDP remains a strong and united force,” he added.
