President Bola Tinubu disclosed that he personally pleaded with PDP chieftain Bode George not to follow through on his earlier threat to go into exile if Tinubu won the 2023 presidential election.

Key Points:

• Tinubu recalled George’s repeated statements prior to the election that he would leave Nigeria if Tinubu emerged victorious.
• At George’s 80th birthday and memoir launch, Tinubu emphasized national unity, noting that political disagreements should not overshadow the shared values that bind Nigerians.
• Tinubu highlighted the elder statesman’s lifelong public service, including his naval career, tenure as military governor of old Ondo State, leadership of the Nigerian Ports Authority, and active role in party politics.
• He praised George for offering counsel on national issues even when they were on opposing political sides since 1999, describing their mutual respect as enduring.
• The memoir chronicles George’s life and provides lessons on leadership, public service, and political engagement; Tinubu encouraged support for its publication.
• The President characterized the event as a reflection of “the Nigerian and Lagos spirit,” emphasizing reconciliation, respect, and collaboration despite political differences.

Message:
Tinubu used the occasion to reinforce national cohesion and civility in politics, illustrating that political rivalry should not break bonds of shared humanity, history, and community.