Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has responded to remarks made by Bode George, a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), suggesting that Atiku’s election as President would have led to the collapse of the country.

In a recent interview on Arise Television, George expressed concerns about Atiku’s leadership, stating, “If Atiku had won, I would have stayed in my house because I know in the future he would collapse. This country would never accept. If he (Atiku) had won that election you think this country would have been stable? Because somebody from the north had just finished eight years and our own norm is that after the eight years, the presidential candidate must come to the south.”

In a statement released by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku condemned George’s comments, asserting that his presidency would have led to prosperity through a merit-based cabinet composed of experienced and capable individuals from diverse backgrounds.

“Contrary to Chief Bode George’s imprudent talk, an @atiku presidency would have heralded an era of prosperity, driven by a cabinet brimming with seasoned and adept individuals, chosen solely on merit regardless of their background or beliefs.

Such leadership would have safeguarded Nigeria’s interests, steering clear of the bigotry and nepotism and brigandage that characterizes this administration. Instead of the current state of disarray, driven by haphazard policies, Nigeria would have thrived under Atiku’s guidance,” Ibe stated.

Atiku also questioned George’s silence regarding the current administration, implying that George’s criticism might be influenced by regional biases. “In contrast, we see Bode George, who once threatened exile, should Tinubu ascend to power, now oddly silent about the present administration. Is Bode’s reticence because Atiku is not from his region? It is prudent to consider Bode’s opinions with caution.”

Furthermore, Atiku criticized George’s stance as being contrary to the principles of unity upheld by the military, suggesting that George’s behavior is a disservice to the values of the armed forces.

“Bode’s conduct is a disservice to the military, an institution esteemed for its unity. Here is a Commodore who, paradoxically, embraces tribalism and undermines the very principles of the military. It is a source of shame for the armed forces to have such a figure in their ranks.”