Bode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urged party elders and stakeholders to step in and address the political turmoil in Rivers State. Speaking on Friday, George expressed concern that the crisis in Rivers could escalate into a nationwide problem.
He cautioned President Bola Tinubu against underestimating the threat posed by certain lawmakers in the state House of Assembly who are pushing for the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. George emphasized that everyone should actively engage in resolving the situation and not ignore the reality, emphasizing that the state is under the purview of the PDP.
Citing Section 109 (1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the vacation of a House of Assembly seat upon defection to another party, George asserted that PDP lawmakers transitioning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have forfeited their positions. Consequently, he dismissed their capacity to threaten Governor Fubara through impeachment proceedings, deeming such efforts futile.
Asserting that Rivers State predominantly aligns with the PDP, George attributed the impeachment threats to external influences. He cautioned against sparking a crisis, referencing historical events like “Operation Wetie” which destabilized Nigeria in the past.
George implored the party’s Board of Trustees to swiftly intervene, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility and restraint in political rhetoric to preserve democracy. He urged all parties involved to prioritize national interests and refrain from actions that could endanger democratic stability.