In a significant political shakeup, the Senate has removed Senator Mohamed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, from his position as Chief Whip. This decision was made during a plenary session held on July 17, where members of the APC Senate Caucus endorsed the move through a voice vote led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Senator Tahir Monguno has been appointed as Ndume’s replacement.

This development follows a directive from the national leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). In a letter signed by the party’s national chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and Secretary, Barrister Ajibola Bashiru, Ndume was asked to resign from the APC and consider joining any opposition party of his choice.

The tensions leading up to Ndume’s removal stem from his vocal criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Ndume’s remarks sparked backlash from the pro-Tinubu camp, including strong reactions from Senator Sunday Karimi of Kogi West and the APC, who deemed Ndume’s statements as derogatory.

In recent interviews, Ndume has expressed his frustration, alleging that President Tinubu is largely inaccessible, and that some ministers in Tinubu’s government also face difficulties in reaching him. These allegations have added to the political drama and tension within the ruling party.

Ndume’s removal as Chief Whip marks a critical juncture in the ongoing political dynamics within the Senate and the APC. The replacement by Senator Monguno indicates a shift towards consolidating support for President Tinubu’s leadership amidst internal dissent.