President Bola Tinubu has revealed that he once appealed to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Bode George, not to follow through on his public vow to go into exile if Tinubu emerged victorious in the 2023 presidential election.
The President shared the anecdote on Friday in a statement released by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, at George’s 80th birthday celebration and memoir launch, Tinubu said the elder statesman’s presence at the event demonstrated the resilience of Nigeria’s shared values despite political disagreements.
He recalled, “I pleaded with him that he would have a change of heart, because we would all remain in Nigeria and work together to achieve the peaceful and prosperous Nigeria that was our collective dream.”
Tinubu described George as “a distinguished Nigerian, an elder statesman, and an accomplished public servant,” adding that his invitation reflected the enduring ties that bind Nigerians together.
Highlighting themes of unity and reconciliation, the President said the occasion showed that political disagreements need not break relationships.
“As politicians, we can shout and disagree. Still, the values that bind us together as members of the same household living in different rooms are more enduring than what divides us,” he said.
Despite being political rivals since 1999, Tinubu noted that he and George have maintained mutual respect, adding that the PDP stalwart has continued to offer “valuable counsel” on national issues since Tinubu assumed office.
He also praised George’s life journey — from his early years in Lagos to his naval career, his time as military governor of the old Ondo State, and his service at the Nigerian Ports Authority — describing the new memoir as a rich resource on leadership, public service and politics.
Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to support the publication, expressing confidence that it would serve as an important reference work.
He wished George long life, strength and continued service to the nation.
In the build-up to the 2023 election, George repeatedly argued that Tinubu could not legitimately win the presidential poll and vowed to relocate abroad if it happened, saying at one point, “If the people keep saying he is the man they want, I have no qualms. I will go and live anywhere I want to live.”
