2027: Bode George states that the PDP will not nominate a candidate from the North for president.

LAGOS — Bode George, who previously served as the Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), revealed yesterday that the party will not nominate a candidate from the North in the upcoming 2027 elections. He stated that any such move would be disrespectful to the party's founders.

George also expressed disappointment over the current defections from the party, claiming that President Bola Tinubu is pressuring PDP governors to switch to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He labeled those who are leaving the PDP to create a coalition as those who won’t achieve anything, suggesting they will eventually return after their plans fail.

His remarks were made during a gathering organized by the Lagos State chapter of the PDP, which celebrated what they termed the party’s revival.

He stated, “It is impossible for our party to choose a Northerner as a candidate in 2027. That would deeply disrespect the party's founders, many of whom have passed away. Those challenging the party’s zoning rules are truly dishonoring their legacy. The late Alex Ekwueme ran for the PDP presidential nomination but did not succeed. Nonetheless, he never abandoned the party, demonstrating true integrity.”

Regarding the defectors forming a coalition, he said, “I want to offer some advice to those who have left and claim they will unite to defeat Bola Tinubu. Let me assure you that Tinubu and his allies are pressuring our governors to join the APC. But he does not hold all the power. Citizens, please stay aware.

“With all these people wandering about, remember that a rolling stone gathers no moss. They’ve tried this before and returned. What they are doing is akin to rejecting their family home. Can one really abandon their father's house merely because there are few leaks, only to live in a rented place?"