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The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has defended its former deputy national chairman, Chief Olabode George, against allegations made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The party also demanded the withdrawal of what it described as unfounded claims against the PDP chieftain.
In a statement signed by the Lagos PDP Publicity Secretary, Prince Dr Christopher Odianarewo, the party accused Wike of making unsubstantiated remarks against George and warned against what it described as an abuse of public office.
The controversy followed comments made by Wike during his monthly media briefing with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday.
Responding to allegations that he had influenced judicial appointments, Wike reportedly questioned the source of funding for George’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, alleging that the property was financed with Rivers State government funds. He also accused George of describing the judiciary as corrupt whenever he loses a court case.
Reacting, Odianarewo said George had already been cleared of corruption allegations relating to his tenure as Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) by the Supreme Court.
“Wike hypocritically labels a man who was categorically exonerated by the Supreme Court, the highest court of the land, from all corrupt allegations during his tenure as Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority Board.
“How does a supposedly educated public servant conveniently forget judicial verdicts?” he asked.
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The PDP spokesman described Wike’s comments on George’s Abuja residence as an affront and urged the minister to focus on his official responsibilities.
“Wike’s reckless questioning of the ownership of Chief Bode George’s Abuja residence is a clear case of an affront and a dangerous abuse of office.
“Wike must be reminded that neither he nor Rivers State has any link whatsoever to Chief Olabode George’s private residence. His ministerial portfolio is not a licence to intimidate citizens or weaponise state power against private individuals.”
Odianarewo also criticised Wike’s political history, accusing him of turning against former allies who supported his rise in politics.
He said George had played a significant role in the PDP’s political development, while accusing Wike of attacking those who had previously supported him.
“When Chief Bode George served as the PDP National Vice Chairman (South) and successfully delivered five states in a landslide victory, Wike was merely a local government chairman struggling for political relevance in Rivers State,” he stated.
Odianarewo further advised the FCT minister to concentrate on his responsibilities rather than engaging in what he described as political attacks against George.
“Mr Minister, focus on your responsibilities in the FCT and keep Chief Bode George’s name out of your political attacks,” he added.
