Chief Olabode (Bode) Ibiyinka George, the former chairman of Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) and ex- deputy national chairman of the PDP has been released from Kirikiri Prison in Lagos after serving a two-year jail term for disobedience to lawful order and contract inflation.
He was met at the prison by his wife, close family members, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, the Oyo State Governor, Dr. Ade Dosunmu, PDP governorship candidate in Lagos state, other PDP party officials, and supporters who had arrived at the prison very early in the morning with bands, posters and banners praising him and welcoming his release.
Later a thanksgiving service was held for him where PDP officials and some senior government officials were present. It is also reported that he is also now being called "The Joseph of Our Time" by PDP members. A reception is also being planned for him
There have been criticisms over the celebrations of Bode George's release, especially after a full page advertisement in a newspaper listed a programme of events, which included a thanksgiving service and reception, to welcome him back from the prison.
The advertisement, signed by 25 people, said, “Welcome the Lion Heart, Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George, Atona Oodua. After darkness comes a glorious dawn. The good Lord, who has given you victory over adversity, will surely strengthen you in every way for a greater tomorrow.”
Some analysts have criticised the pomp and pageantry around Bode George's release and said that it amounted to justifying corruption and questioned the ethical standard of the Nigerian society.
An analyst speaking to Punch newspapers said, “It makes rubbish of the anti-corruption drive. It is an unholy reception. There is no problem with going to church to thank God for bringing him out of the prison, especially the way the Nigerian prisons are, but not with fanfare that will send a wrong signal to the members of the public.”
However, his supporters believe that his conviction was politically motivated.
In August 2008, Bode George and four others, were arrested by the EFCC and arraigned on 163 counts of conspiracy, disobedience to lawful order, abuse of office and alleged illegal award of contracts worth N84 billion while he was chairman of the NPA. The EFCC reduced the charge to 63 count and in October 2009 he was found guilty on 47 counts and sentenced to jail for 30 months.
The total sentences added up to 28 years in prison, but the counts for disobedience to lawful order were ruled to run concurrently for six months, and the counts for contract inflation were to run concurrently for two years.
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Saliu Elenu London, England February 26, 2011
Very sad to see the fun-fare that followed the realised of Bode George but not suprised when Jonathan Goodlucky former boss was arrested in London for money laundring. Althomatically he became an hero. Imagine the son of former tyrant contesting for governership ,think of the Saraki show of shame. Look at the way Atiku is prarading himself like a God sent leader. I am not amused about Nigeria leaders unshameful act they are all pack of corrupt people and takes people for granted. Bode we married more women called the media and invite top Nigeria musician and trust Bisi Olatilo show will give it the publicity. Poor people are not that smart .
jango lagos, February 26, 2011
it is only thieves dat will appreciate an ex convict release, so that if he had not repented,they can continue to steal.
