Eshanekpe Israel, popularly known as Akpodoro and the Mayor of Urhoboland, has dismissed recent comments made by Chief Bode George, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Chief George had claimed during his 79th birthday celebration that Nigerians are eagerly waiting to vote out President Bola Tinubu in 2027 due to the hardships facing the country.
In a sharp response from his Ughelli Mayoral Palace, Akpodoro described Chief George’s remarks as nothing more than a “midsummer night’s dream,” fueled by what he called the boredom of political retirement. Contrary to George’s claims, Akpodoro asserted that Nigerians are ready to give Tinubu an even stronger mandate in 2027.
Praises for Tinubu’s Leadership
The Urhobo mayor commended President Tinubu’s administration, praising its efforts to rebuild Nigeria after what he called 24 years of socio-economic damage under the PDP. According to Akpodoro, Tinubu has brought “immeasurable dividends” to Nigerians through bold reforms aimed at fostering a prosperous and fair society.
He specifically lauded Tinubu’s political will and determination, saying these qualities are steering the nation away from the ruins left behind by previous administrations. Akpodoro accused critics, including Chief George, of being part of a reactionary group opposed to Tinubu’s progressive economic policies.
Criticism of Chief Bode George
Akpodoro also took aim at Chief George, reminding Nigerians of George’s pre-election promise to leave the country if Tinubu won the 2023 presidential election. The fact that George has not left, Akpodoro argued, demonstrates the renewed hope that Tinubu’s leadership has brought to the nation.
The mayor further accused George and the PDP of wasting Nigeria’s wealth during years of high oil prices, failing to invest in the nation’s progress. In contrast, he described Tinubu as a visionary reformist working tirelessly to dismantle entrenched systems of corruption.
Key Achievements Under Tinubu
Highlighting some of the president’s notable achievements, Akpodoro pointed to the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira as critical reforms. According to him, these policies have disrupted long-standing profiteering networks and set the stage for economic recovery, despite the temporary challenges they might pose.
He also urged Tinubu to revisit unresolved national issues, such as the collapse of the National Shipping Lines, which he attributed to mismanagement under the PDP. Akpodoro emphasized that the removal of subsidies is a permanent move, arguing that it has the support of most Nigerians who understand its long-term benefits.
Dismissal of PDP Criticisms
Akpodoro dismissed criticisms from the PDP, accusing the party of hypocrisy and poor governance. He claimed that the PDP presided over some of the worst elections in Nigeria’s history and brought the nation to its knees through corruption and mismanagement.
He urged Nigerians to ignore the narratives coming from PDP members, who he said are only trying to distract from the progress being made under Tinubu’s leadership.
Confidence in Tinubu’s 2027 Victory
Concluding his remarks, Akpodoro expressed confidence that President Tinubu’s transformative leadership will secure him a resounding victory in the 2027 elections. He called on Nigerians to continue supporting Tinubu’s vision for a renewed and prosperous Nigeria, describing him as the clear “consensus choice” for the future.
