Bode George Urges Tinubu to Distance Himself from Sycophants

Olabode George, who used to be the deputy national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asked President Bola Tinubu to stop Nigeria from moving toward a possible break.

In an open letter on Friday, he said that what is happening in the country’s political space right now is very worrying.

He said, “The growing suppression of opposition voices, whether direct or indirect, the apparent drive toward political dominance without restraint, and the weakening of democratic balance are not only troubling; they are signs of a system under stress and on the verge of breaking.

“This is not a normal letter; it comes from the bottom of my heart.”

He said that democracy can’t survive when opposition is weakened, made fun of, or systematically silenced. He also said, “A country governed without credible dissent is not stable; it is volatile, and once it is ignited, it respects no office, title, or authority.”

“Mr. President, there have been many leaders in history who thought that being in charge meant being strong. They surrounded themselves with praise, ignored criticism, and ignored warnings until reality set them straight, often in a way that couldn’t be changed. Please do not walk that path with all your heart.

George, who said the president was at a crucial crossroads, also said, “You can choose to change course, strengthen democratic institutions, and restore national confidence.”

“Or you can let things go on as they are, which could make things worse and lead to outcomes that no government can fully control.”

He also told the president to accept the truth and stay away from people who flatter him. He said, “Stay away from people who flatter you.” Accept the truth and be brave. Get rid of people who lie to you.

“Listen to the voices of reason.” Keep the space for democracy safe. Save Nigeria from a crisis that doesn’t have to happen. Defend its democracy. Keep it together. He said, “Make sure it has a future.”