By Lateef Ibrahim
A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has extended an olive branch to party elder statesman Bode George, urging him to reunite with what it described as the party’s mainstream leadership structure.
The appeal comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the PDP and resolve internal divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in Lagos, the faction’s State Organizing Secretary, Hakeem Olalemi, described George as a respected founding member whose experience and contributions remain invaluable to the party.
Olalemi stressed that despite differences arising from the prolonged leadership crisis within the PDP, George remains an integral part of the party and would always be welcomed.
According to him, the former deputy national chairman possesses the political influence and institutional knowledge needed to help reposition the PDP for future electoral contests.
“Chief Bode George is always welcome in the PDP. We have great respect for him and there is room for him within the party,” Olalemi said.
He expressed confidence that George would eventually work with the party’s mainstream leadership, adding that his return would further strengthen efforts to rebuild and unify the opposition party.
Describing George as a father figure and one of the PDP’s foundation members, Olalemi said no individual could question his place within the party’s history and structure.
The call for reconciliation comes against the backdrop of continued disagreements within the PDP over its leadership and direction. George has remained a prominent critic of Wike’s role in the party’s affairs and is aligned with the faction led by Dr. Kabiru Turaki and backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
Despite the lingering divisions, Olalemi maintained that the PDP remains one family and expressed optimism that ongoing reconciliation efforts would ultimately foster unity among members and leaders across different blocs.
