Bode George Warns Tinubu Over Democracy Risk Amid Rivers State, Natasha Allegations

LAGOS—Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has voiced concerns that the ongoing political developments in Rivers State and the Senate’s handling of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio could threaten the stability of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. He warned that similar events in the past led to the downfall of Nigeria’s First and Second Republics.

George, speaking in Lagos, criticized the Nigerian government for what he termed as unconstitutional actions, including the controversial voice vote used to approve President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers. He also condemned efforts to recall Natasha from the Senate, calling the situation shameful and indicative of deeper flaws in Nigeria’s democracy.

In his remarks, George drew parallels to past political crises, stating, “Today, we are seeing the same mistakes that led to the collapse of our earlier republics, now being repeated by the APC-led government. The unconstitutional decisions, including the handling of the Rivers State crisis and the treatment of Natasha, are not just harmful to Nigeria’s democratic institutions, but they also bring international disgrace.”

He further criticized the deployment of security forces to protect a deposed speaker in Lagos while security was withdrawn from the elected speaker, and the National Assembly’s rubber-stamp approval of the state of emergency in Rivers without the required two-thirds majority.

Manipulation of Political Processes

One of the most contentious issues raised by George was the Senate’s handling of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Natasha’s allegations have sparked a political battle, with George accusing the Senate of partisan misconduct, further eroding public trust. He pointed out the lack of an independent investigation into Natasha’s claims, instead opting for punitive actions against her, including her suspension.

“There is a serious risk that these actions are part of a political conspiracy to recall Natasha using the machinery of state. The attempt to manipulate the political process, such as the unsubstantiated gathering of signatures at the INEC office, is a gross injustice,” George said.

He also warned that such actions signal a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s future. “This is not democracy, it’s a clear case of manipulation. We are heading toward a very dangerous path,” George added, referring to the government’s interference in the Kogi State and Bayelsa State political situations.

Global Embarrassment and Growing Tensions

While George condemned these actions as threats to Nigeria’s democracy, he also emphasized the international embarrassment caused by these moves. The global community has been closely watching Nigeria’s political developments, with criticism coming from various quarters, including from notable figures like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who recently warned that democracy in Nigeria was under threat.

Looking ahead, George expressed his concern that these tensions could escalate as the 2027 elections approach. He warned that, with rising insecurity, corruption, and economic challenges, the government’s focus should be on resolving these issues rather than engaging in political conflicts.

Conclusion: A Call for Accountability and Transparency

George concluded his statements with a call for accountability and transparency in the country’s political system, urging the government to respect democratic norms and uphold the integrity of the electoral process. He also called on Nigerians to resist attempts to manipulate the democratic process, stressing that the country’s future depends on the actions taken today.

For more information on the political climate in Nigeria and the challenges facing its democracy, you can read this insightful article from The Guardian on the state of Nigerian democracy here.