Urgent: Bode George Demands Tinubu's Action on Opposition Secretariat Invasion

Published 2 weeks ago3 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Urgent: Bode George Demands Tinubu's Action on Opposition Secretariat Invasion

Chief Bode George, a former deputy national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has vehemently called upon President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action regarding the police invasion of the party's secretariat. The incident occurred on the day of the inauguration of the new PDP executives, a move that George described as a brazen disregard for the rule of law and a serious threat to the growth of multi-party democracy in Nigeria. He made these statements at a press conference held in Lagos on Tuesday, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

George asserted that President Tinubu, as the primary custodian of democracy in the country, cannot afford to remain silent in the face of such a provocative act. He warned that any silence from the President at such a critical juncture could only be interpreted as a tacit approval of the police's actions. The veteran politician questioned the authority behind the police's forced entry, asking, "Who authorised the police to take over the headquarters? Under what authority? Since when does a tenant overtake a landlord?" These questions underscore his deep concern over the legality and propriety of the invasion.

Highlighting the broader implications, Chief George stated that repeated violations of due process and unchecked abuses of power are detrimental to public confidence and threaten the very fabric of national cohesion. He expressed worry that current actions by certain individuals risk pushing Nigeria's democracy towards instability. Furthermore, he criticized the APC-led federal government, suggesting that it appears preoccupied with political positioning ahead of the 2027 elections, even to the extent of weakening democratic institutions and stifling opposition voices.

The disruption at the PDP Secretariat on November 18 was specifically cited as a grave warning. George pointed out that the actions of a group previously expelled for anti-party activities, reportedly encouraged by a serving Federal Minister, constituted an "unacceptable assault on democratic order." He firmly stated that their attempt to prevent a duly elected leadership from assuming office was not only unlawful but also part of a larger pattern that jeopardizes the future of multi-party democracy in Nigeria. As a life member of the PDP Board of Trustees (BOT), Chief George reiterated that any individual wishing to depart from the party is free to do so.

Chief George also issued a stern warning to the party in power, urging them to be mindful of their conduct. He expressed concern that the younger generation, witnessing these events unfold, might become disillusioned with democratic processes if the current trajectory continues. He contrasted the present situation with the PDP's 16-year governance, during which, he claimed, no political opponent was subjected to such a level of harassment or institutional manipulation, reinforcing his plea for a return to democratic principles and respect for the rule of law.

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