In a heartfelt appeal, elder statesman and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bode George, has urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to remain committed to the PDP and resist mounting pressure to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, George emphasized the importance of loyalty and patience, particularly at a time when the PDP is grappling with internal challenges and high-profile defections. His comments come against the backdrop of speculation that Governor Fubara might be considering a switch to the APC, following a growing trend exemplified by figures such as Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and other political heavyweights including Ned Nwoko, who recently left the PDP for the ruling party.
George stressed that despite the turbulence, the PDP remains a well-structured political organization capable of overcoming its internal issues. “Governor Fubara has conducted himself with dignity amidst the tension. He has been reassuring the people, urging calm,” George stated. “I appeal to him to stay focused on his path. With steadfastness and the fear of God, he will fulfill his destiny. There is no need to panic or defect.”
Highlighting the PDP’s robust structure, George pointed to the presence of a duly constituted national leadership, including the National Chairman, National Secretary, National Organizing Secretary, and National Women Leader, as reasons for optimism within the party.
“Those who wish to leave are free to do so, but the PDP will endure. The grassroots support in Rivers State remains strong. I encourage Nigerians to visit and witness the sentiments of the people firsthand,” he added.
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Governor Fubara’s political journey faces significant hurdles. His tenure was recently interrupted when President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political unrest. Consequently, Fubara was suspended, and former Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok-Ete Ibas, was appointed as the state’s administrator, deepening the political uncertainty.
The latest wave of defections from the PDP to the APC reflects broader realignments in Nigeria’s political landscape, as parties jockey for strength ahead of future electoral battles. However, voices like Bode George continue to advocate for unity and resilience within the PDP, urging loyalists to weather the storm rather than abandon ship.
