Ndume Critiques Tinubu's Advisors for Political Disconnect

Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, has levied criticism at the close associates of President Bola Tinubu.

During an interview on ARISE Television’s Prime Time on Wednesday, January 28, Ndume stated that the President is ill-advised by individuals who are disconnected from the political landscape and lack a connection with the grassroots populace.

He further indicated that rising tensions in the North could significantly affect electoral outcomes if prompt measures are not implemented to address ongoing issues.

"Anyone who claims that there is no unrest in the North is not being truthful," Ndume remarked. "If action is not taken soon, the impact will be evident in their voting behavior. The positive aspect is that the President has the ability to rectify the situation."

According to the senator, northern leaders have tried to engage the President positively, mentioning his involvement in discussions between Tinubu and northern elders.

"Elders from the North have been reaching out. I attended both the initial and final meetings with Mr. President alongside northern elders," he shared. "He was well-prepared and included key appointees from the North, leading to a productive dialogue."

Despite the President's previous assurances, Ndume lamented that subsequent engagements faltered shortly after.

"He assured us that the dialogue would continue, but it did not follow through," he noted.

Although he refrained from placing direct blame on Tinubu, Ndume emphasized that the challenges faced by the President predominantly arise from his inner circle.

"What I suspect is that the President isn’t at fault; the issue lies with his advisers," he stated.

Ndume contrasted Tinubu's present leadership team with those he had when governing Lagos State, which he pointed out was comprised of competent advisers.

"During his tenure as governor of Lagos, the President surrounded himself with capable individuals, which facilitated his success," Ndume remarked.

"But now, many of those good people are no longer involved, having been pushed aside."

He went on to criticize some of the presidential aides for their elitist tendencies and lack of a broader national perspective.

"He has selected individuals who are largely disconnected from the populace," Ndume expressed. "Their focus seems to be limited to Ikoyi and Victoria Island, only traveling abroad to see their families. They are not fully integrated into Nigerian society."

He added, "Instead of assembling a team that could provide him with unfiltered insights, he opted for advisers who lack political awareness."

Ndume cautioned that if the issues voiced, especially those from the North, are not adequately addressed, the existing dissatisfaction could deepen and result in significant fallout during elections.