The former Deputy National Chairman of the party Chief Bode George, the Peoples Democratic Party has declared that it will not enter into any alliance with opposition parties for the upcoming 2027 election.
Addressing the media at a parley in Lagos on Wednesday, George not only emphasized the party’s commitment to independent candidacy but also weighed in on the potential candidacy of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in 2027.
He urged Atiku to reconsider his presidential ambition, citing concerns about age hindering effective service to the nation.
While acknowledging Atiku’s right to contest, George underscored the necessity for the party to definitively state that the presidency must remain in the south in 2027.
He pointed out the historical precedent set by General Muhammadu Buhari, who spent eight years as president and hails from the north.
“Let our party produce its own presidential candidate from the south.
The lessons from the 2023 general election should guide us, ensuring that individual ambitions, including Atiku’s, do not overshadow the national interest and the greater good of our country,” George asserted.
Furthermore, George addressed discussions circulating about the formation of a mega party to secure the presidency.
He expressed skepticism about the feasibility of hastily establishing a solid political entity, highlighting the time and effort required for such an endeavor.
The veteran politician also touched on the factor of age, drawing parallels with international leaders like President Joe Biden.
George cautioned against extended political engagements for the elderly and urged Atiku, who is approaching 81 in 2027, to consider a mentorship role rather than pursuing ministerial positions.
“In 2027, I can’t tell Atiku not to contest but our party must be definitive and definitively state that the presidency must still be in the south. General Muhammadu Buhari spent eight years and he is from the north.
“Our party must produce it’s own presidential candidate from the south. I hope we learnt something from the 2023 general election. We Atiku’s ambition be greater than the national ambition and national interest of our country.
“I heard someone sating they want to form a mega party to win the presidency? Which mega party, you think you can a spin and you will deliver into the basket. Do you know how long it takes to have a solid party?
“Age also has cut up with some and you can see the way they are talking and telling President Joe Biden of US to take a good rest because he is already 82 years. He wants to go for another four years and he will be the oldest president that has never ruled in America.
“My brother Atiku Abubakar is 77 years last year and by 2027 he will be 81 years. Atiku should be in a situation where he plays like the big uncle in the room or the elder in the room.
“What would anybody carry me now to do because I’m heading to 80 years and I want to go and be minister, to do what? Let’s mentor the younger generation and let’s be consistent with our strong belief in our party norms,” he said.
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