Chief Bode George, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said that the internal crisis rocking the party is being resolved as the individuals responsible are now leaving.

George made the statement on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, while reacting to the exit of Atiku Abubakar, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and Dele Momodu, who also left the party earlier the same day.

He expressed optimism that the party would regain its footing after the upcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled for next week.

“Those who created the crisis are the ones you find outside there now, who have gone to join him (Atiku),” George said.

When asked if the PDP could survive without Atiku and Momodu, George dismissed concerns and insisted the party was moving forward.

“We are holding our NEC meeting this coming week. At that meeting, we will address our problems and approve all the committees responsible for organising our elective convention.

“After that meeting, you’ll see that the Iroko tree has been resurrected,” he added, using a metaphor to suggest a rejuvenation of the party.

George accused the defectors of being driven by personal ambition and a desire for a presidential platform outside of due process.

“They are just starting up. I don’t want to say good riddance to bad rubbish, but I am appealing to them before it’s too late. What they want is a platform to contest the presidency by all means.

“In our party, there’s a procedure. Once the ticket is not zoned to your region, you cannot contest. They are exhibiting perpetual self-conceitedness. It must be them. It must be you. It must be me. That’s their mindset.”

George’s remarks come amid deepening cracks in the PDP, which has been battling internal disunity since the 2023 general elections.