2027 Race Heats Up: Bode George Rebuffs Atiku’s Candidacy, Backs Peter Obi’s PDP Return

In an interview with The Guardian, George urged PDP stakeholders to avoid fielding Atiku, as he believes doing so would result in another electoral defeat. He criticized Atiku for neglecting the South during the lead-up to the 2023 presidential election, a move that, according to George, caused resentment within the party and led to the rebellion of the G-6 governors, spearheaded by former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike.

“Under Atiku’s leadership, the South-West was offered nothing. He even had the audacity to say that something would be given to us after the election, which we rejected. What does that tell you?” George asked.

He further warned that it would be a betrayal and a form of injustice for another Northern candidate to secure the PDP ticket in 2027.

“I can assure you that no reasonable Southerner will wholeheartedly campaign for a Northern candidate in 2027. I will never do that until 2031, after the South has completed its eight years,” George stated.

Obi’s Future Lies with PDP

On the political future of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, George asserted that Obi’s presidential ambition could only succeed within the PDP.

“I have nothing against Obi. He is from the South, but the reality is, the Labour Party lacks the national infrastructure to challenge Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. The only party with the strength, roots, and support to defeat the APC is the PDP. I do not believe Tinubu’s re-election will be as easy as some believe. He can be defeated in 2027, but only if PDP leaders act with fairness, justice, and equity,” George remarked.

Appeal for Wike’s Reconciliation with PDP

George also made an emotional appeal to Nyesom Wike, urging him to reconsider his opposition to the PDP.

“Despite any personal grievances, I urge you to prioritize the nation’s interest over any pain. We must unite to rebuild Nigeria,” he said.