Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his stance on President Bola Tinubu, asserting that his criticisms are focused solely on government policies, not the person of the President.
In a candid interview with Channels Television’s Politics Today, the seasoned senator took the opportunity to clarify his position, underlining the deep respect he holds for Tinubu while explaining the nature of his political discourse.
“I am not a critique of the government. It is our government. President Tinubu is one of my mentors,” Ndume stated firmly, emphasizing that his critique is meant to improve the nation and is not personal. “I disagree with him on some policies, but I’m only doing so for the betterment of Nigeria. I have a deep respect for him.”
The senator’s comments come in response to various public perceptions that may have misinterpreted his recent remarks on the President’s policies. Ndume recalled a recent moment with Tinubu, which had become the subject of much speculation. He clarified the context behind a viral photograph of the two, showing them in a relaxed, jovial mood.
“He always says that I don’t come to the Villa. I told him that he didn’t ask me to, and he said I can come tonight,” Ndume recalled. “He also said he would attend my daughter’s wedding, despite it coinciding with the Nigerian Army Remembrance Day. After the ceremony, I expected him to leave, but he said he wasn’t going anywhere; he was staying to attend the wedding.”
For Ndume, this personal interaction with Tinubu illustrates the mentor-mentee relationship that exists between them, despite their political disagreements. The senator emphasized that such relationships are grounded in mutual respect, and that his critiques are rooted in policy, not personality.
“I do not criticize my elders. Tinubu is my senior, and I respect him,” Ndume said. “In all of my critiques, I’m challenging policies, not the person behind them. For instance, I criticized some policies of former President Muhammadu Buhari, but I’m much closer to Tinubu than Buhari.”
This clarification comes on the heels of Ndume’s outspoken criticism of certain economic policies introduced by President Tinubu, including the controversial tax reform bills. In November 2024, the senator made headlines when he called the tax reform proposals, particularly the Value Added Tax (VAT) increase, “dead on arrival.”
“Our people are saying they don’t want the VAT bill; they don’t even want to hear about it,” Ndume explained at the time. “This is why we will make it dead on arrival.” The senator urged President Tinubu to heed the advice of the National Economic Council (NEC) and the Northern Governors’ Forum, calling for the withdrawal of the tax reform bills.
But Ndume’s concerns are not limited to the VAT issue alone. He has been vocal about what he believes are the immediate priorities for the administration, particularly in relation to the federal budget. “I have always said it to Mr. President: implement the budget, and Nigerians will be happy,” Ndume remarked during the interview. He emphasized that focusing on two critical issues—security and the welfare of citizens—should be the President’s foremost priorities.
“Concentrate on those two things—security and welfare—and then every other thing will come,” Ndume advised, echoing the sentiments of many Nigerians who feel that the country’s security and economic challenges should be tackled head-on.
Ndume also addressed the need for the government to be responsive to the pressing concerns of the Nigerian people. He highlighted the economic strain on citizens, which has fueled growing dissatisfaction, particularly in the northern regions. “We are at a crossroads. Nigerians are suffering from high inflation, unemployment, and insecurity. These are the issues we need to resolve before we look at anything else,” he stated.
The senator’s critique of the President’s policies, while pointed, reflects a broader debate within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over the direction of the nation’s economic and social policies. Ndume’s remarks echo concerns raised by other political figures, especially those from the northern part of the country, who are wary of policies that might further burden the average Nigerian.
In the same breath, however, Ndume reaffirmed his loyalty to the administration, stressing that his disagreements should not be mistaken for disloyalty or opposition. “I am not an enemy of the government. This is our government, and we want it to succeed,” he said, adding that his commitment to Nigeria’s growth remains unwavering.
While some have criticized Ndume for his bold stance on issues such as tax reforms, his recent comments reflect his nuanced approach to governance. He believes that constructive criticism, especially from those within the government, is essential for accountability and progress. As a senior member of the Senate, Ndume is expected to play a key role in shaping the legislative agenda, which will likely involve continued scrutiny of President Tinubu’s policies.
“Tinubu is my mentor, but we do not always see eye to eye on every issue,” Ndume acknowledged. “I believe that through respectful dialogue, we can find common ground for the betterment of the country.”
As President Tinubu navigates his second year in office, Ndume’s reflections serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for the administration. The need for unity within the ruling party, as well as the importance of addressing the concerns of ordinary Nigerians, remains crucial to the success of the government.
