Bode George Warns Onanuga Over Comments On Obasanjo

Former Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has lambasted Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, for his remarks against former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

George, during an interview on radio programme, described Onanuga’s comments as disrespectful and warned that such actions would have consequences.

Onanuga’s criticism of Obasanjo came after the former president, speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in the United States, condemned Nigeria’s 2023 general elections as a “travesty.”

Obasanjo lamented the nation’s challenges, citing “widespread corruption, poor leadership, and immorality” as causes of insecurity and underdevelopment.

He further criticized the current administration, referring to the leadership styles as “Baba-go-slow” and “Emilokan,” the latter being a slogan associated with President Bola Tinubu’s election campaign.

Obasanjo also advocated for the appointment of new, credible leaders to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore public trust.

Reacting to Obasanjo’s remarks, Onanuga accused the former president of hypocrisy, stating that Obasanjo had presided over what he described as the “most fraudulent election in Nigeria’s history.”

In his response, Bode George condemned Onanuga’s tone and accused him of violating Yoruba cultural values, which demand respect for elders.

He warned Onanuga to tread carefully, suggesting that his actions could have long-term repercussions.

“An old man who could be Bayo Onanuga’s father said something, and you took him on by blasting him right, left, and centre,” George said.

“That is his style because he did it to me before; he didn’t meet me at Ijebu Ode Grammar School.

“Even if you want to react, the Yoruba culture does not allow that insult from him. Someday he would pay back, because there would be a day after, and that’s more important.

He should be vigilant as he walks because it’s possible for him.”

George’s remarks have added another layer of tension to the ongoing exchange of words between the two political camps, with many observers questioning the tone of political discourse in Nigeria.