Senator Ndume Escalates Criticism of Tinubu’s Leadership and Cabinet Choices

 Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has intensified his criticism of President Bola Tinubu, accusing him of mismanaging cabinet appointments and surrounding himself with advisors who fail to offer honest counsel. 

In a recent television interview, Ndume labeled Tinubu’s administration as dominated by “kakistocrats and kleptocrats,” arguing that the president’s reliance on loyalists over competent allies has weakened governance. He specifically pointed to the exclusion of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai as a critical error, noting El-Rufai’s near-confirmation as a minister before his Senate rejection in 2023.

Ndume, a former Senate Chief Whip, recounted El-Rufai’s shift from supporting Rotimi Amaechi to backing Tinubu during the 2023 APC primaries, suggesting internal party dynamics have fueled tensions. He expressed confusion over the rift between Tinubu and El-Rufai, who has since left the APC to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and an emerging anti-Tinubu coalition. 

Ndume also rebuffed claims by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, who called him a “frustrated lone wolf,” asserting his credibility as a four-time senator and two-time House member. He denied being frustrated, emphasizing his electoral success and commitment to speaking truth to power.

The senator’s remarks come amid Nigeria’s economic challenges, including 33% inflation and a 4.2% unemployment rate in 2024.