Chief Olabode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid Democracy Day celebrations.
Fubara, who was suspended on March 18 amid ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, recently paid a visit to President Tinubu in Lagos during the Sallah festivities.
In an open letter released on Wednesday, Chief Olabode George tied his appeal to the symbolism of June 12 — the 32nd anniversary of the 1993 presidential election, won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola but subsequently annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
George contended that if President Tinubu could reconcile with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, he should similarly extend forgiveness to Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“Since Tinubu has forgiven Sanwo-Olu, it is only reasonable—spiritually and morally—to also forgive Fubara and allow him to resume office. I speak as an elder,” George stated.
He further reminded the President of his active role in the struggle against military rule and the advocacy for the return to democracy.
“I still remember him visiting my office in Aso Rock during the Sani Abacha regime when he sought an audience with General Diya. At the time, he wanted to be deputy to Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Lagos. Although he spoke with Diya, the position was eventually given to Mrs. Okunnu by General Abacha,” George recounted. “Even then, Tinubu was deeply passionate about the return to civilian rule.
”He noted Tinubu’s later involvement with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), highlighting his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
“Tinubu joined NADECO and stood firm for democracy. Many who fought alongside him have since passed away. His survival is not by his own doing—it is by God’s grace.
”George urged Tinubu to honor the memory of those fallen heroes by taking meaningful action in the present.
“He should thank God, honour the sacrifices of his fellow pro-democracy fighters, and reinstate Governor Fubara without delay.
”Appealing to history, George invoked the legacy of his maternal grand uncle, Herbert Macaulay, founder of Nigeria’s first political party in 1922.“In the spirit of Herbert Macaulay, I ask President Tinubu to act justly and restore Fubara to office. He should heed this appeal as a tribute to all who laid down their lives for Nigeria’s democracy,” he added.
