Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has condemned recent remarks by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, asserting that the PDP did not shape his political career.
George described Wike’s statement as a “disgusting abomination.” Recall that on Monday, Wike had a media parley where he commented on George’s recent statement that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ‘made’ Wike. George said this while reacting to the sealing of the PDP Headquarters by the FCTA Authorities over unpaid ground rent.
Responding to Bode George, Wike said;
‘’I read what he said. If an old man has no job, sit down in your house and read newspapers. Bode George said PDP made me, gave me national name. I agree. Party cannot make you. You are the one that will make the party popular to win election. Party cannot say we are popular. It is you individuals that will make the party popular.
I agree that PDP made me. Ask Bode George whom did PDP make in Lagos i f it is the party that makes? Who in Lagos did the party make since 1999. Not one House of Assembly, House of Reps, Senate, not anything! and then you are talking to me who has campaigned and worked for the party to be the major party in the state and national level”
Speaking on Arise TV on Wednesday, George described Wike’s comments as disgusting and an abomination.
“For me, the comment from the young man (Wike) because he is the same age as my first son, to me it’s a disgusting abomination,. It is an infradignitata for me to lower myself and be responding to the comments made by him. A lot of elders, seasoned Nigerians have asked me not to even respond. I don’t want to denigrate myself listen and talking…. when young people blow their pipes, the elders will try to correct them and advice them accordingly. If they do not listen, don’t worry. Time will tell. I am more interested in talking about our party, its future, the strength of our party and the need to convince Nigerians that this our party is in a much better position to handle the problems that are plaguing every Nigerian” George said
George urged Wike to reflect on the transient nature of life and power, citing William Shakespeare’s Macbeth: “Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player, that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more.”
He emphasised that Wike’s comments were not only ungrateful but also shortsighted.
The PDP chieftain highlighted Wike’s rise to prominence within the PDP, noting that the party had supported his career, including his tenure as governor of Rivers State.
“You are now saying that it is the individual that has the capacity but my young man, look, if you see any ballot box did you see the names of any individuals written on the ballot papers?” George questioned.
He also stated that he does not have the individual authority to expel Wike from the PDP.
“Our party is not like APC, owned by an individual. Our party was established with rules and regulations. There’s no individual who owns this party (PDP),” he said