Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to postpone his presidential ambition until 2031.
George, in a statement on Wednesday, emphasized the need for Atiku to adopt President Joe Biden’s approach of empowering younger leaders.
He believes it’s time for Nigeria’s older generation to give way to fresh, youthful perspectives in the country’s highest office.
He explained that a Southerner must occupy the office of the President and Commander in Chief from 2023 to 2031 “because that is the reality of our country, PDP constitution and our polity”.
George, a former military governor of Ondo State said the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari, a northerner from Katsina State, just left office after ruling for eight years.
He added that power at the federal level could not go to the North in 2027 because “that is the reality of our country and our party’s constitution”.
He said, “Even in 2027, Atiku will be 81 years and this is the time for him to embrace President Joe Biden’s concept of allowing the younger generation to run for the highest office in the land.
“I have nothing personal against Alhaji Abubakar. He is my friend but the truth must be told. By 2027, by God’s Grace, I will also be in my 80s.
“So, what am I looking for in public office as an octogenarian? The same principle should apply to Alhaji Abubakar.
“We all saw what American President, Joe Biden, did recently when he stepped down for Kamala Harris to contest the November presidential election.
“That is the hallmark of a statesman. Alhaji Abubakar should do same so that in 2027, PDP will field a southerner as presidential candidate.
“Section 7, Sub-section 3 (C) of the PDP Constitution stated that zoning and rotation must be maintained for justice, fairness and equity.
“In our party, this is the right and logical thing to do in the present political circumstances.