Lagos, Nigeria – Chief Bode George, a prominent elder statesman and former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has openly reacted to the departure of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, from the party.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Tuesday, George described Adeleke’s exit as a “desperate move for survival.” His comments were part of a broader statement titled: “State of the Nation, Dear Mr President Our Nation is wobbling politically.”

George acknowledged the ongoing internal crisis within the PDP. He suggested this turmoil might have influenced Adeleke’s swift decision to leave. However, he maintained that the move still reflected a desperate struggle for political relevance.

According to George, the lack of a clear, undisputed leadership within the party likely pushed Adeleke to take such a step. Despite this, he affirmed that any member wishing to leave the PDP is free to do so. “A political party, like a tree, grows stronger when unhealthy branches fall away,” George stated, emphasizing the party’s resilience.

Bode George Accuses APC, Blasts Wike Over PDP Interference

Beyond Adeleke’s exit, George leveled serious accusations against the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government. He claimed they are actively trying to destroy the PDP and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.

George specifically called on President Bola Tinubu to rein in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. He urged the President to instruct Wike to stop meddling in the PDP’s internal matters.

The PDP chieftain alleged that the APC government prioritizes political maneuvering for the 2027 elections. He argued this focus comes at the expense of national security and institutional integrity.

He criticized the government’s slow response to escalating nationwide insecurity. This includes rampant abductions and killings across several states. George highlighted that the APC appears more concerned with 2027 positioning. He warned that this approach weakens institutions and stifles opposition voices.

George cited the disruption at the PDP National Secretariat on November 18, 2025, as a “grave warning.” He sees it as evidence of a broader anti-democratic pattern. He directly implicated the FCT Minister in the chaos. George alleged that the forceful entry was encouraged by a serving Federal Minister, referring to the Wike-aligned faction previously expelled from the party.

“The actions of a group previously expelled for anti-party activities… constitute an unacceptable assault on democratic order,” George declared. He added that the forced entry into the PDP National Secretariat violated “every line of decency and legality.”

He also questioned the police’s role during the fracas. Tear gas was deployed to disperse clashing factions. George asked, “Who authorised the police to take over the headquarters? Under what authority? Since when does a tenant overtake a landlord?”

George concluded that the APC-led government is using the situation to weaken the PDP. He described the PDP as “the only true national party in Nigeria.” He further accused the government of providing police protection to “renegades.”

Direct Appeal to President Tinubu and Warning to Wike

Chief George issued a direct plea to President Tinubu. He also delivered a stern warning to Minister Wike.

“It is, therefore, imperative that you call your minister to order,” George told the President. He insisted that Wike must respect the laws of the land.

Addressing Minister Wike directly, George stated, “I speak as an elder: you have been a major beneficiary of the PDP.” He reminded Wike of his political journey, which included roles as Local Government Chairman, Chief of Staff, Minister, and Governor.

George emphasized that the PDP nurtured Wike’s political rise. “It is therefore painful to watch you take actions that could damage the very institution that supported you,” he lamented. He offered a word of caution: “Power is temporary; reputation is permanent. Do not allow yourself to be used as an instrument to destabilise the Republic.”

He concluded with a historical reflection: “History is replete with lessons. When institutions are weakened, chaos follows. This is not the path Nigeria deserves.”