Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to refrain from contesting the 2027 presidential election, suggesting instead that he wait until 2031.
In a statement on Wednesday, George argued that it is not the North’s turn to produce a president according to the constitutions of both Nigeria and the PDP, which emphasize rotational leadership. He urged Atiku to follow the example of U.S. President Joe Biden by stepping down and allowing younger candidates to take the lead.
George emphasized that while he has nothing personal against Atiku, the reality of Nigeria’s political landscape means the former Vice President should consider waiting until 2031 if he wishes to run for the presidency again. He also highlighted the need for the PDP to nominate a southern candidate to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
George noted that by 2027, Atiku will be 81 years old and should consider stepping aside to allow the younger generation to take charge, similar to what Biden did in the U.S. He also underscored the importance of respecting the PDP’s constitution, which mandates zoning and rotation to ensure fairness and equity.
Refuting claims of tribalism, George asserted his commitment to a united Nigeria and reiterated his stance on maintaining the principles of zoning and rotation within the PDP, which have been in place since the party’s inception in 1998. He called on all party members to uphold these principles as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.
