Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has made a passionate appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, invoking the spirit of June 12 and Nigeria’s long struggle for democracy.
In an open letter released on Wednesday to mark the 32nd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, George called on the president to embrace reconciliation and forgiveness, as a symbol of democratic maturity.
“Since Tinubu has forgiven Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, then it makes a lot of sense, spiritually, to also forgive Fubara and let him return to office. I am talking as an elder,” George stated.
A Call Rooted in Democratic History
George, a prominent elder statesman and critic of the APC-led administration, anchored his plea in the legacy of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the presumed winner of the 1993 election that was annulled by then military ruler Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.
“On June 12, we will be celebrating Democracy Day. This is a reminder of the true meaning of democracy – the will of the people,” he said.
He also recalled Tinubu’s role in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and the broader democratic movement of the 1990s, urging him to act in the spirit of that struggle.
“Tinubu was in the forefront of those who fought the military, seeking a return to civilian rule. He should honour the memory of those who fought alongside him for democracy and return Fubara to office immediately.”
Spiritual and Historical Appeals
George’s appeal went beyond politics, drawing on spiritual and ancestral references. He invoked Herbert Macaulay, his maternal grand uncle and founder of Nigeria’s first political party, the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP), in 1922.
“I appeal to him, in the spirit of my maternal grand uncle… to please reinstate Fubara,” he added.
Background: Fubara’s Suspension
Governor Siminalayi Fubara was suspended from office on March 18, following escalating political tensions in Rivers State, reportedly involving conflicts with his predecessor and current Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. The suspension, which is yet to be fully explained by the presidency, raised eyebrows across the political spectrum and drew criticism from PDP stakeholders.
Recently, Fubara visited President Tinubu in Lagos during the Sallah celebrations, sparking speculation about reconciliation moves behind the scenes.
As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day on June 12, George’s intervention is a timely reminder of the unresolved political tensions in Rivers and a call for healing in a nation still navigating its democratic path.
