Bode George Criticizes PDP Defectors, Describes Their Actions as Selfish and Driven by Personal Interest
Prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and elder statesman, Chief Bode George, has expressed strong disapproval of recent defections from the party, describing the motives of the defectors as purely self-centred and lacking in principle.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lagos, the former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP did not hold back in his criticism, stating that those who had chosen to abandon the party at a critical time were driven more by personal ambition than by any genuine ideological disagreement or vision for national development.
According to George, the recent wave of defections from the PDP to rival political parties, particularly the All Progressives Congress (APC), is a disturbing trend that undermines the integrity of the democratic process and weakens the foundation of party loyalty and discipline.
“These individuals are not defecting because they disagree with the ideals of the PDP or because they are standing on principle. They are leaving because of promises of personal gain — appointments, contracts, political favours. It’s all about their pockets, not the people,” George remarked.
He went on to say that political parties should be built on values, policies, and collective goals — not as platforms for personal enrichment or political convenience. George lamented that such behavior sets a dangerous precedent for younger politicians who may come to view party affiliation as a tool for short-term gains rather than long-term service.
The elder statesman further urged committed PDP members to remain steadfast and focused on rebuilding the party from within, warning that the path to progress will not be easy but is necessary for restoring the party’s credibility and reconnecting with the Nigerian electorate.
He called on the party leadership to take necessary disciplinary actions against those who undermine the party’s unity, while also emphasizing the need for internal reforms, unity, and greater transparency.
Bode George’s comments have since sparked wide debate in political circles, with some supporting his position while others argue that defection is a legal right in a democratic system. Nonetheless, his remarks have added a critical voice to the ongoing conversation about loyalty, principle, and the integrity of political actors in Nigeria’s democracy.
