LAGOS — Elder statesman and former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Bode George, has raised the alarm over recent political developments, warning that Nigeria’s democracy is dangerously close to collapse.
Speaking in Lagos, Chief George slammed the APC-led federal government, claiming its handling of key issues; like the state of emergency in Rivers State and the alleged persecution of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan; is a threat to the survival of the Fourth Republic.
He argued that the situation mirrors events that led to the fall of Nigeria’s First and Second Republics, and warned that the presidential system currently in place is becoming worse than military rule.
George criticized the voice vote used to approve President Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration in Rivers, calling it “unconstitutional.” He also condemned moves to recall Senator Natasha, who had earlier accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of misconduct, describing it as a coordinated witch-hunt.
“What’s going on in this country makes no sense,” he said. “They’re trying to silence Natasha instead of investigating her claims. This is not democracy. It’s a disgrace!”
He slammed the National Assembly for turning a blind eye to constitutional requirements. “The law says you need two-thirds of the Senate and House for a state of emergency; not just a voice vote. Where are the numbers?”
Chief George also criticized what he sees as double standards in how politicians are treated. While rallies were banned in Kogi during Natasha’s visit, he claimed the Federal Government is encouraging Minister Nyesom Wike to stir tension in Bayelsa, despite the fragile situation in nearby Rivers State.
“It’s pure manipulation and lawlessness,” George declared. “If this continues, we’re headed for trouble in 2027.”
He praised Senators like Tambuwal, Dickson, and Abaribe for standing against what he called “illegality and injustice in the Senate.”
George concluded with a warning: “This is no longer democracy. The way things are going, Nigeria is on the global spotlight; for all the wrong reasons.”