President Bola Tinubu has voiced his happiness that political figure Bode George celebrated his 80th birthday in Nigeria rather than in exile. The statement highlights a notable moment in their political history.
President Bola Tinubu recently expressed relief and joy regarding Bode George's 80th birthday celebration. In comments reported by Daily Trust, Tinubu stated, 'I’m happy Bode George didn't celebrate 80th birthday in exile.' This remark comes amid a backdrop of past political tensions between the two figures, both prominent in Nigerian politics, particularly within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) circles.
Bode George, a key PDP leader and former deputy national chairman, turned 80 on November 21, 2025. His decision to mark the occasion in Nigeria underscores a shift from earlier periods when he faced legal challenges and exile-like situations due to convictions in 2009 for contract splitting and inflation at the Nigerian Ports Authority. Tinubu, now president, has historically clashed with George, including during the 1990s in Lagos politics.
The statement was made public on November 21, 2025, as covered by journalist Dotun Omisakin. It reflects a tone of reconciliation or at least acknowledgment of George's return to normalcy in the country. No further details on the celebration or direct interactions were provided in the reports.
This event occurs against Nigeria's ongoing political landscape, where figures like George continue to influence discourse despite past adversities.