Bode George warns against abuse of power, urges Wike to respect democratic institutions

Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has described the exit of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke from the party as a “desperate move for survival,” attributing it to the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP.

Speaking to reporters in Lagos on Tuesday during a briefing on the state of the nation, George highlighted that confusion over which faction of the party’s leadership holds authority had likely compelled Adeleke’s abrupt departure.

“The lack of clarity about who truly controls the party is creating panic among members,” he said.

George also used the platform to urge President Bola Tinubu to intervene and restrain Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that unchecked political maneuvering threatens Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement titled “State of the Nation, Dear Mr. President, Our Nation is Wobbling Politically,” George condemned what he described as repeated violations of due process and the abuse of power, emphasising their corrosive effect on national cohesion.

“The recent disruption at the PDP Secretariat on November 18 is a grave warning.

A group previously expelled for anti-party activities reportedly encouraged by a serving Federal Minister—sought to prevent a duly-elected leadership from assuming office.

This is not only unlawful but part of a broader pattern that undermines multi-party democracy in Nigeria,” George said.

As a life member of the PDP Board of Trustees (BOT), George insisted that party members have the freedom to leave if they wish.

“A political party, like a tree, grows stronger when unhealthy branches fall away,” he said, noting that recent events at the secretariat, including its unauthorised closure, raise serious questions about adherence to democratic principles.

Addressing President Tinubu directly, George cautioned against the erosion of democratic norms.

“Is this the democracy envisioned by our Constitution, or are we drifting toward governance that contradicts its spirit?

Repeated violations of due process and unchecked abuse of power threaten public confidence and national unity,” he warned.

George underscored the urgency of preserving stability, asserting that Nigeria is at a critical political crossroads.

“If the current trajectory is not halted, the country risks a deeper political crisis. Power is not eternal, and every leader must govern with humility,” he said.

In a pointed message to Minister Wike, George reminded him of his political roots within the PDP and the responsibilities that come with power.

“You have been a major beneficiary of this party rising from Local Government Chairman to Chief of Staff, Minister, and Governor.

It is therefore painful to watch actions that could damage the very institution that nurtured your rise. Power is temporary; reputation is permanent,” he said.

George concluded with a stern warning about the broader implications of institutional weakening.

“History is replete with lessons: when institutions are eroded, chaos follows. This is not the path Nigeria deserves,” he said.

The former PDP chieftain’s remarks come amid growing tensions within the party, following Adeleke’s exit and recent disputes over leadership legitimacy, highlighting concerns over Nigeria’s political stability and the resilience of its democratic institutions.