Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Chief Bode George has described Nigeria’s current constitution as “absolute rubbish” and called for an urgent overhaul of the nation’s governance framework.
In an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, Bode George reflected on the legacy of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London. While expressing condolences to Buhari’s family and the people of Katsina, George used the opportunity to critique the structure of power and governance Buhari operated under — and which, he argues, remains deeply flawed.
“The constitution we are operating is absolutely rubbish. It centers only on one man in Abuja,” George said.
The PDP elder statesman called on the next generation of Nigerian leaders to rethink the current political system, particularly in the interest of local governance and equitable power distribution. He cited Lagos State’s bloated local government structure as an example of imbalance, questioning how effective governance can take place under such conditions.
Speaking passionately, Bode George urged leaders to prioritize citizens’ welfare over political theatrics:
“There is hunger in the land, and therefore, anger in the land. Let’s think of the people. That is where the power comes from.”
On Buhari, Bode George revealed a personal anecdote:
“We will miss him. He always called me a rascal,” he said with a mix of humor and reflection. “But we must remember Oga for what he did.”
He further challenged Nigerians to consider what legacy they wish to leave behind, referencing his own political lineage through Herbert Macaulay, Nigeria’s pioneering nationalist and his great-granduncle.
“What do you want to be remembered for? What do you want to do to remove these abject poverty lies from the people of this country?”
As tributes continue to pour in for the late former President, George’s remarks stand out for blending respectful remembrance with a call to action, urging the country to break away from outdated systems and build a more people-centered democracy.
