By Goli Innocent

A former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Olabode George, has warned the All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission against engaging in electoral malpractice ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during the inauguration of new PDP executives in Lagos, George alleged that the ruling party was pushing Nigerians to the brink. “If APC thinks it can repeat the same in 2027, Nigerians will shock them,” he said.

He cautioned INEC to be fair and transparent, stressing that the electoral body has no constitutional authority to impose leaders on political parties. “In PDP, INEC cannot choose our leaders for us. Opposition parties will resist this irresponsible behaviour from the electoral umpire,” he said.

George criticised the conduct of a recent election, describing it as shambolic and mismanaged. “This is shameful and despicable,” he said, alleging that security agents disrupted voting at a polling unit in Abuja by firing tear gas and snatching ballot boxes.

He also claimed that PDP governors and lawmakers were being pressured to defect to the APC. “Our governors and lawmakers are being forced and threatened to defect, but we are not bothered because PDP is the only true national party in the country today. APC is just a coalition of strange bedfellows,” he said.

Urging party members to remain committed, George added: “Nigerians are waiting for us in 2027. Remain in the party and work for its progress.”