President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that he personally appealed to elder statesman and prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bode George, not to proceed with his earlier vow to go into exile if Tinubu emerged victorious in the 2023 presidential election.
The President made this disclosure on Friday in a statement signed by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). The remarks were delivered on Tinubu’s behalf by the SGF, Senator George Akume, during the 80th birthday celebration and memoir presentation of Chief Olabode George.
Speaking with a mix of humour and reflection, President Tinubu said he had urged Chief George to reconsider his threat because Nigeria belonged to all citizens regardless of political differences. “I pleaded with him that he would have a change of heart because we would all remain here in Nigeria to build the peaceful and prosperous nation we collectively desire,” the President said.
Tinubu emphasized that Chief George’s decision to extend an invitation to him for the milestone event reflected the enduring ties of history, humanity, and brotherhood that transcend partisan divides, particularly between political actors from Lagos.
Highlighting the importance of unity, the President noted: “This event has shown once again that although politicians may shout, disagree, and stand on opposite sides of the political aisle, the values that bind us together as one family are far stronger and more enduring than our temporary disagreements.”
Tinubu acknowledged that he and Chief George had stood on opposing political platforms since 1999, yet mutual respect has always prevailed. He commended the PDP chieftain for consistently offering useful counsel through his public commentaries on national issues since he (Tinubu) assumed office.
Reflecting on Chief George’s life at 80, the President described him as “a distinguished Nigerian and an accomplished public servant whose journey is a testament to divine grace, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to national service.”
He also praised the memoir unveiled during the ceremony, stating that the work captures Chief George’s formative years in Lagos, his distinguished naval career, his tenure as Military Governor of old Ondo State, his leadership role at the Nigerian Ports Authority, and his long-standing influence in party politics. Tinubu said the book would serve as a valuable resource on leadership, governance, patriotism, and public service.
The President further pledged support for the publication and encouraged other attendees to acquire copies for personal libraries as well as for educational institutions.
Chief Bode George had, in the buildup to the 2023 general election, repeatedly declared that he would leave Nigeria if Tinubu won the presidency. In one of his statements, he argued that an electronically transmitted result would make Tinubu’s victory impossible but maintained that he would relocate if Nigerians insisted on choosing him.
President Tinubu’s remarks at the event underscored not only reconciliation but also the enduring strength of national unity despite political competition.
