Bode George Has Been Very Helpful To My Administration – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said that the former deputy national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has been very helpful to his administration by offering useful advice where necessary, just as he added that he pleaded with him not to embark on self-exile in 2023.

Speaking at the 80th birthday ceremony of Chief George and the launching of his memoirs held in Lagos, the president commended the former military governor of Ondo State for his contributions to nation-building.

Tinubu who was represented by the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Chief George Akume, said since he became president, Chief George has been very gracious, offering advice and suggestions where necessary through many of his interventions on national issues. “I find many of his suggestions very valuable, enriching,” he said.

The president added that when Chief George threatened to go on exile if he wins the presidential election, he decided to plead with him that he would have a change of heart, “because we would all remain in Nigeria and work together to achieve a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria that was our collective dream.”

President Tinubu added that, ‘’The event of today has again demonstrated that, as politicians, we disagree. Still, the values that bind us together as members of a household living in different rooms are more enduring and stronger than us.

“Politically, Chief Olabode George and I have been on opposite sides since 1999. But that has never diminished my admiration for him as a leader in Nigeria and in Lagos, our home state. I know the respect has always been mutual.”

Present at the event were former governors of Adamawa, Niger, Ogun and Kano states, Murtala Nyako, Babangida Aliyu, Sen Gbenga Daniel and Sen Rabiu Kwankwanso, respectively.

Also present were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi and the chairman, Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, among others.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was represented by Col. Paul Edor-Obi (rtd), described Chief George as a mentor and father.

“This milestone is a testimony to a life of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to our nation.

“Over the decades, you distinguished yourself as a professional, elder statesman, and a political leader. Your contributions to Nigerian democratic development and national unity remain deeply appreciated.

“You have demonstrated uncommon courage in standing with conviction, and have shown remarkable consistency in promoting justice, peace and good governance,” he said.

He said that George’s autobiography would inspire the generations to come.

In his speech, Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, disclosed that Chief George saved him from being drowned in his political journey by intervening when he was nursing the ambition of becoming governor.