Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, believes the party will resolve its internal crisis before the 2027 elections.

During an interactive session in Lagos on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, George stated that the ambition of any individual should not outweigh the collective interests of the party.

He stated, "I call our party the Iroko because it didn’t emerge from nowhere. It is entrenched in our constitution. Section 7 (3c) of the PDP constitution mandates zoning and rotation of party positions and elective offices.

Everything that has been in the South must go to the North, and vice versa. This principle of justice, equity, and fairness is what inspired some of us to join politics. We were the first to be elected in 1999 and were handed procedures and doctrines to ensure stability.

Unfortunately, human manipulation crept in when someone decided their ambition to be president was more important than the party’s collective interest. That’s where the issues started. We need to return to the principles handed over to us to restore stability.”

According to George, some of the party’s challenges were due to manipulations during the tenure of former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu.

Speaking on the cost of fuel in the country, Bode George appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reduce the price of petrol to N300 per litre because of the festive season.

He said: “From the middle of December to the end of January, the cost of petrol should be reduced to ₦300 per litre. The government can absorb the losses. This gesture would spread happiness across tribes and households, especially during these critical months.

December and January are universally significant, whether one is Christian, Muslim, atheist, or traditionalist. A reduction in petrol prices will positively impact lives during this period.

If the First Lady can donate ₦1 billion to a university, funds can also be allocated to offset the cost of this reduction. This initiative will bring relief to Nigerians and reduce the cost of living. It’s a challenge, but one that President Tinubu can meet to show genuine commitment to the people who voted him into office.”