Yemi Obafemi
Senator Ali Ndume, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed strong reservations over the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu by APC governors, warning that the move may not reflect the true sentiments of the Nigerian electorate.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Ndume stated that he did not support the decision, citing the worsening socio-economic conditions in the country.
“Things are very bad in the country,” he said. “Nigerians cannot see any hope, they are doubting the Renewed Hope.”
Ndume revealed that he had attended what was supposed to be a summit, only to discover it was being used as a platform to secure a voice vote endorsing President Tinubu. According to him, he promptly left the venue once the true nature of the gathering became clear.
“I was there but that was not why I was there,” Ndume said. “I was there for a summit and when I realised that it was not a summit and voice vote was put about the endorsement of Mr President, I just left. That does not mean I am not an APC member. The majority had its way, but few of us felt that was not right.”
The Borno South senator drew comparisons with former President Goodluck Jonathan’s failed re-election bid in 2015, noting that similar endorsements in the past have not guaranteed electoral success.
His words: “It happened before, not once, not twice. It happened during Jonathan. That does not mean anything. Politicians are decamping, but the people who are the voters are not decamping,” he said.
“I hope that he [Tinubu] would look back historically and see that the gathering of people to endorse you does not mean anything. Jonathan had 22 governors then endorsing him like was done now. And what happened? Jonathan lost woefully. A lot of money was spent. Even the election was shifted, but we are not learning our lessons. I pity Mr President.”
