By Milcah Tanimu
In response to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent announcement that he would withdraw his presidential ambition in 2027 if the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) selects Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) candidate from 2023, Bode George, former National Deputy Chairman of the PDP, emphasized the importance of adhering to power rotation between the North and South for the party’s success in 2027.
During his address to the nation titled “My Thoughts on The State of Our Country in the Last 25 Years: A Time to Chart A New Direction,” George stressed that the PDP must uphold the principle of power rotation to avoid repeating the mistakes of the 2023 election, which resulted in the party’s defeat.
George highlighted the significance of power rotation as enshrined in the party’s constitution, designed to prevent any circumstances that could potentially lead to a return of military rule. He underscored that the founders of the party divided the nation into six geo-political zones to foster unity among various ethnic groups and ensure inclusivity.
Furthermore, George reiterated the founders’ vision that the top six positions in the country should be shared among the six geo-political zones to promote equity and justice. He emphasized the need for the PDP to adhere strictly to its constitutional provisions, particularly regarding zoning and rotation, to avoid internal divisions and setbacks.
Quoting Section 7 subsection 3C of the party’s constitution, George emphasized the necessity of following zoning and rotation procedures for both party and elective positions simultaneously. He pointed out that historical tensions between majority and minority tribes in Nigeria necessitated such measures to prevent marginalization and unrest.
George lamented the consequences of deviating from these foundational principles, citing past experiences where departures from zoning agreements led to internal strife within the PDP. He urged the party leadership to learn from these mistakes and uphold the principles laid down by its founders to foster unity, inclusivity, and electoral success.