Intimidation of Makinde Bala Mohammed Undermines Democracy — Bode George Warns

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Former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, has raised alarms over what he describes as the intimidation of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. According to George, targeting elected officials for expressing dissenting political views is an overt attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democratic framework.

Reflecting on recent political and economic developments, George emphasised that a democracy lacking a strong opposition is little more than authoritarianism under a civilian guise. He warned that the increasing intolerance for alternative viewpoints is eroding the very foundations of democratic governance.

“Pressuring or harassing state executives simply because they hold different opinions represents a dangerous drift toward one-party dominance,” George noted. He argued that democracy thrives on diverse perspectives and debate, not enforced conformity or fear.

The former PDP leader described the situation as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, where anxiety and uncertainty are intensifying—not due to a lack of national potential, but as a consequence of weakened democratic principles. George characterised the treatment of Governors Makinde and Bala Mohammed as more than routine political disagreement; he labelled it a calculated attack on the country’s federal system.

Shifting focus to economic issues, George criticised recent government spending decisions he viewed as insensitive. He pointed to reports of significant contributions toward a private library project for First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arguing that such funds should be redirected to alleviate widespread poverty and hunger. “True leadership is measured by service and sacrifice, not personal legacy projects while citizens struggle,” he stressed.

George also highlighted the critical role of INEC in maintaining Nigeria’s democratic integrity. He urged the electoral body to ensure transparency and fairness, warning against outcomes influenced by unexplained technical failures or opaque processes. According to him, elections must genuinely reflect the will of the people, rather than serve as a façade for behind-the-scenes manipulations.

“The harassment of elected governors and the misallocation of public resources signal a worrying erosion of both political and economic accountability,” George added. He called on all stakeholders to uphold democratic principles and ensure that Nigeria remains a nation where leadership is earned through service and popular mandate, not intimidation or elite-driven projects.