Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, has advised ex-Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to refrain from contesting the 2027 Presidential election, expressing concerns about his age being a hindrance to effective governance at that time.
Speaking from his Lugard office in Lagos, George suggested that Atiku should take on a mentorship role for younger individuals instead.
Highlighting the age factor, George pointed out that Atiku, the PDP’s Presidential candidate in the last election, would be 81 years old in 2027.
Emphasizing the need for regional balance, George insisted that the PDP should firmly uphold the zoning of the Presidency to the South, asserting that the North has already had its eight uninterrupted years.
Expressing disapproval of those advocating for a Mega Party within the PDP, George urged them to abandon such efforts, asserting the PDP’s entrenched and national standing.
He affirmed that, in 2027, individuals could decide to contest, but the party must unequivocally assert that the Presidency remains in the South.
Addressing the security challenges in the country, George called on President Bola Tinubu to convene a meeting with retired military officers to devise solutions.
Describing the current security situation as “horrendous and heart-rending,” George emphasized the urgency of addressing rising insecurity and expressed pity for the President facing a barrage of crises.
George urged Tinubu not to shy away from advocating for state police and suggested implementing the 2014 National Confab report commissioned by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
He called for a national discussion on insecurity, condemning the murder of traditional rulers in Ekiti State and the kidnapping of school pupils, categorizing these acts as sacrilegious.
George stressed that resolving the issue of insecurity requires honesty and commitment from those in power, emphasizing that it transcends party lines and affects the entire nation.
