Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has expressed confidence that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting will go ahead despite the ongoing internal crisis.

In an interview with ARISE News on Thursday, George noted the party’s current state of disarray but attributed the crisis to “self-inflicted” wounds, stemming from internal decisions and personal ambitions rather than structural failure.

“We have had crises in the past, and this is not the first time. But I believe that those who still love this party can come together and resolve our differences. We will meet on Monday, and we will resolve our crisis,” he said.

George stated that the crisis currently rocking the PDP is self-inflicted, resulting from individuals prioritising their personal interests over the party’s corporate interests.

He appealed to party members who still have love for the PDP to put aside their differences and come together to resolve the crisis.

According to George, the party’s elders and custodians of its liabilities and assets have a responsibility to intervene and help find a solution. He expressed confidence that the crisis could be resolved and the party could move forward.

George noted that every organisation, including political parties, will inevitably face crises at some point, saying it is how the party responds to these challenges that will determine its competence and maturity.

He stated that the PDP’s current crisis is not a breaking point but rather a lesson that the party can learn from.

George stressed that the party’s ability to confront uncomfortable truths and reassess areas of friction will be a measure of its competence to the public.

He expressed optimism about the party’s prospects and believes that it can still be rescued despite its internal wranglings.

George’s comments come amid growing tensions within the party, with some members questioning the legitimacy of the upcoming NEC meeting.

The party’s Acting Chairman, Umar Damagum, had earlier announced the cancellation of the NEC meeting, citing a lack of notice to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

However, George insisted that the party’s constitution allows for flexibility in such matters and that the NEC meeting will proceed as planned. He also emphasised the importance of party elders weighing in to resolve the crisis.

The PDP chieftain also spoke out against FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, rejecting claims that he “owns” the PDP.

George acknowledged Wike’s past contributions to the party but condemned his recent actions, particularly his public support for President Bola Tinubu, as inconsistent with PDP values.

“When did Wike join the party? Who said he owns it? Okay. He has contributed his quota, yes. But to say he owns the party, that’s a fallacy,” he said.

He added, “The only local political party in this country is the PDP. No matter who wants to leave, we will bring this party back up.”