Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Bode George has revealed why he decided to stay in Nigeria after the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the 2023 presidential election, despite his earlier statement that he would relocate if Bola Tinubu emerged victorious. According to George, Tinubu intervened directly to persuade him not to leave the country.
During an interview with journalists on Arise Television, George shared that once Tinubu became aware of his plans to relocate, he sent Femi Gbajabiamila, his Chief of Staff, to appeal to him. George described Gbajabiamila as a “little brother” from Lagos, further emphasizing the personal nature of the intervention.
George explained that Gbajabiamila’s visit was part of an effort to calm tensions, as he delivered a message from Tinubu asking George to reconsider his decision to leave Nigeria. Tinubu’s camp, according to George, was aware of the grievances he held and sought to address them, offering certain assurances to ease his concerns.
The PDP chieftain’s remarks came in response to comments made by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Wike had recently criticized George for failing to follow through on his initial pledge to leave Nigeria after Tinubu’s victory. This criticism likely prompted George to clarify the reasons for his change of heart.
In recounting the incident, George noted that the approach made by Gbajabiamila was significant, as it reflected a recognition of the past wrongs done to him. He hinted that the options presented by Tinubu’s representative played a role in his decision to remain in the country.
He said, “I said that I will leave Nigeria if Bola Tinubu wins election but he sent someone to beg me. Bola Tinubu sent his Chief of Staff who is my little brother from Lagos State, Femi Gbajabiamila, and he came to me and said that Bola Tinubu said that I should be calm.”