A key figure in the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Bode George, has warned that if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had won the 2023 presidential election, it would have resulted in significant instability for Nigeria.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Friday George said, “If Atiku had won, I would have stayed in my house because I know for real (that) in future he would collapse. This country would never accept it.

“If he 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. Those who are running around for appointments (we wish them) best of luck.” 

George explained that Atiku’s candidacy was a major factor in the current turmoil within the PDP.

He noted that the party’s deviation from its traditional norms by nominating a northern candidate was a critical error. 

“The emergence of Atiku from the north as a presidential candidate… completely disorganised the norm of the party,” he said.

He also criticized the handling of party leadership transitions, specifically targeting former PDP national chairman Iyorchia Ayu for not resigning as agreed. 

George emphasized the need for the PDP to address its internal divisions and focus on fundamental reforms rather than merely forming new committees. 

“We need to do a fundamental review of what went on during the last elections, come up with solutions because a divided house will always remain a defeated house,” he concluded.