Bode George

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has dismissed claims that the party is no longer relevant in Nigeria’s political landscape, describing those who hold such views as “dreamers”.

Speaking during an interview yesterday on Channels Television Politics Today, George reacted to the growing perception that the PDP has lost its political strength, especially in the face of internal wrangling and recent electoral setbacks.

“No way; those are dreamers. I’m telling you they are first-class dreamers,” the former National Chairman of the PDP said. “In political management, ownership structure, camaraderie—what we have in the PDP, they don’t have.”

The elder statesman, who is also a member of the party’s Board of Trustees, referred to the PDP as “the Iroko political party of Nigeria”, insisting that its foundation remains solid despite the turbulence it has faced in recent times.

Reacting to the recent police blockade at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, George described the incident as disgraceful and deeply disturbing. He recalled being turned away from the party’s headquarters, likening the experience to being denied entry into one’s own home.

“It’s like going back to your home, and suddenly it’s surrounded by police. I thought, ‘What in the globe is happening?’” the 79-year-old political leader recounted.

Despite the incident, he noted that the party has taken the episode as a learning experience. “These experiences are a load of lessons for party members. They’ve apologised; we saw the shenanigans,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of internal dialogue and unity in overcoming challenges, stating that the PDP has resolved to reconcile its differences and move forward.

“There’s no organisation in the world without a crisis,” he said. “The most sensible thing is to come back, close the door, speak some home truths, debate, and unite — and that is what we’ve done today.”

George’s remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the PDP to reposition itself ahead of future elections, amid leadership tussles and competing factional interests.