Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has issued a strong warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu about the growing threat to Nigeria’s democracy, citing the ongoing Rivers State political crisis and the controversy surrounding Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a statement today, George expressed deep concern that the situation in Rivers, as well as the circumstances surrounding Natasha’s political predicament, has the potential to undermine Nigeria’s democratic principles and the rule of law. According to George, the actions of key political figures in these matters threaten to erode the trust Nigerians have in the fairness and integrity of the political process.
"The situation in Rivers State and the ongoing saga involving Natasha are not just political squabbles; they represent a fundamental challenge to the values upon which Nigeria's democracy is built," said George. "If left unchecked, this could set a dangerous precedent for future elections and governance in our country. We are witnessing attempts to manipulate outcomes, suppress opposition voices, and undermine the will of the people."
George went on to urge President Tinubu to act swiftly in addressing these issues to ensure that the country’s democratic institutions are not weakened by actions that may set the stage for future electoral malpractice.
"Under your leadership, Nigeria has the chance to set a new standard for democratic integrity," George continued. "However, that opportunity will be lost if these troubling developments are not addressed in a fair, transparent, and decisive manner."
The former PDP stalwart further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant security agencies to uphold their constitutional duty to safeguard the democratic process, especially in Rivers and other states where there have been allegations of electoral fraud and violence.