Politics: Tinubu Is My Mentor, I Only Criticise His Policies Not Him – Senator Ndume

Ali Ndume, the senator representing Borno South, has clarified that he is not a critic of President Bola Tinubu but rather of his policies. Speaking on Politics Today, a programme aired on Channels Television on Tuesday, January 14, Ndume emphasized that Tinubu remains his mentor and someone he holds in high regard despite his vocal opposition to certain policies....Read Full Article >>➤

The lawmaker, known for his recent outspoken stance against some of Tinubu’s policies, previously attributed Nigeria’s economic hardships to certain advisers surrounding the president.

He had also opposed the tax reform bills transmitted by the president to the National Assembly, even threatening to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the proposed legislation.

However, Ndume clarified during the interview that his criticism was not personal but aimed at improving governance for the betterment of the nation. “I am not criticising the President but his policies. I am not a critic of this government; it is our government,” he stated.

He further explained his approach to criticism, saying, “In all of my criticism, I don’t criticise my elders. Tinubu is my senior; I respect him, though I disagree with him in some cases in order for us to agree for the betterment of Nigeria, but he is surrounded with… I don’t want to use another word that will cause me another suspension.

I criticise policies, not Tinubu. I criticised the policies of Buhari, but I’m closer to Tinubu than Buhari. I respect Tinubu, but I disagree with him in some areas, hoping we will agree soon.”

Ndume also addressed a viral photo showing him and President Tinubu in a jovial mood, clarifying the context behind the image. He revealed that the president had questioned his infrequent visits to the Presidential Villa, to which Ndume responded that he had never been invited. Tinubu then extended an invitation, saying he could visit that night.

“The president is one of my mentors. He only said, ‘Why do I not come to the villa?’ I told him that he didn’t ask me to, and he said I can come tonight,” Ndume recounted. ...Read Full Article >>➤