Prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bode George, has publicly criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna State, questioning the intent behind the move and its implications for the PDP.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, George expressed deep concern over what he described as a unilateral move by Atiku without consultation with party stakeholders.
“Those who are now forming a mega party, what is the purpose of that mega party?” George asked. “You’re a member of a solid organization, you want to pull out. You are meeting with Baba Buhari — is he a member of our party?”
The PDP stalwart went on to criticize Atiku for what he termed as disregard for internal party processes. “Have you discussed your mega something with anybody else? Do you think it’s a private fiefdom? Is PDP a private company? Nobody owns PDP. You bring it within the party. Let us discuss it. Once it is approved, then you move,” he said.
Atiku, who has been rallying opposition figures in a bid to create a broad coalition ahead of the 2027 general election, recently met with former President Buhari. In attendance were former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, among others.
George questioned the symbolism of Atiku’s visit to Buhari, referencing their political history. “We presented you against him, and he flopped you like a little kid, and then you ran there,” he said. “Look at General Buhari shaking hands with these guys — is he a member of our party?”
He also raised concerns over the regional composition of the delegation that visited Buhari. “If you look at the congregation of those who visited Buhari, they are all from one side. Who are the others from our party?”
George concluded by urging PDP members nationwide to remain united and focused on strengthening the party from within rather than being swayed by external coalition talks. “Come home and work together for the party ahead of 2027, rather than joining hands to set up a mega party for Atiku’s personal ambition,” he advised.