Bode George Questions Why PDP Governors Are Joining APC

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has expressed confusion over the recent defections of Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu and Douye Diri of Bayelsa to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking in an interview, George described the move as a betrayal of loyalty and questioned what could be attracting opposition governors to a ruling party that, in his view, has failed to deliver on its promises to Nigerians.

He said the defections were baffling given the current hardship in the country, adding that hunger, joblessness, and a rising debt burden have made life more difficult for citizens. He wondered how leaders who benefited from the PDP’s platform could suddenly switch allegiance to a party many Nigerians blame for their suffering.

George particularly questioned Governor Diri’s defection, noting that Bayelsa has always been a PDP stronghold and that Diri himself became governor through the party’s structure and a Supreme Court judgment. He said leaving the PDP at the twilight of his tenure was a disservice to those who supported his rise to power.

He also recalled that some politicians often defect to the APC out of fear of investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), but said that such moves only show a lack of principle and integrity.

Speaking on Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, George said his defection was unnecessary, especially when party elders had appealed for patience to resolve internal disagreements. He said both governors should have shown respect to the people and party that gave them their mandates.

George accused some governors of trying to dominate party affairs, saying such behaviour contradicts the PDP’s founding principles. He urged them to consult with elders and other stakeholders before taking decisions that could affect the unity of the party.

According to him, the PDP was built on collective leadership and not the personal ambitions of governors. He warned that if the trend of defection continues, it could weaken democratic competition and push Nigeria toward a one-party system, which he described as dangerous for the country.

George said he remains confident that the PDP will survive despite the defections, insisting that loyalty and commitment, not numbers, will determine the future strength of the opposition.

He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain neutrality and transparency in future elections, warning that Nigerians will not tolerate another “technical glitch” or electoral manipulation in 2027.