People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bode George, has dismissed fears that the party is collapsing under the weight of internal divisions ahead of its mid-term convention in Ibadan, saying disagreements over consensus candidacy are part of normal democratic processes.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, George said the PDP remains strong despite what he described as “a family problem” that every political organisation experiences.
“There is no organisation that will not have one crisis or the other. The ability of the managers to manage, discuss, debate, agree and disagree is a measure of our competence.”
His comments come amidst growing tension within the party following reports that some governors and elders have endorsed the former minister of special duties, Turaki Tanimu, as consensus candidate for national chairman, a move opposed by others including former Jigawa state governor Sule Lamido.
George, a member of the PDP Board of Trustees, defended the practice of consensus, insisting that it does not prevent other aspirants from contesting.
“The fact that those leaders converged and supported one individual as the consensus candidate doesn’t mean that others will not compete. Anybody who wants to contest should be given the form. Let them go to the field and be voted for,” he said.
He explained that the PDP constitution recognises consensus as a legitimate process, but stressed that no one should be denied participation.
“Our constitution allows you to reach a consensus. We didn’t shut the door. For those who say, I don’t agree with you, Let them go to the field. As long as they meet the requirements, they are allowed,” said George.
He also downplayed the recent wave of defections from the opposition party, arguing that those leaving are individuals, while the party structure remains intact.
“Do you see the name of any governor when you go to vote? It is the party. The base is still strong,” he stated.
Addressing concerns that legal disputes could stall the Ibadan convention, George maintained that litigation is part of the political process but expressed confidence that the convention would hold.
“There is no devilish thing about what is happening. We are still going through the process. The managers of the party have zeroed in on somebody. If you want to compete with him, go and get the form and compete,” he added.
He described leadership as a test of endurance and crisis management, noting that the PDP’s resilience through years of internal turmoil shows it can recover. He urged members to stay united and focused on rebuilding the party’s image ahead of future elections.
“A leader is like a dustbin. You find all kinds of people firing demonic missiles at you. But as long as you remain calm and follow due process, people will see your competence and trust you,” he said.
