Senator Ali Ndume from Borno South has spoken out about the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office. He shared his doubts and concerns during an interview on Channels TV on June 8.
Ndume reminded people that in 2015, former President Goodluck Jonathan had the backing of 22 governors from his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Despite this strong support, Jonathan lost the election to Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This, Ndume said, shows that political endorsements do not always guarantee victory.
He stressed that the real power lies with the voters themselves, not with politicians changing parties or giving their support. According to him, it is the votes from the people that truly decide the outcome of elections.
When 22 APC governors came together to support President Tinubu for the 2027 election, Ndume said he did not agree with this decision. He pointed out that the country is currently facing many problems. The economy is struggling, the cost of living is rising fast, and insecurity is increasing in many parts of Nigeria.
“Nigerians cannot see any hope, they are doubting the Renewed Hope,” he said.
Ndume was so unhappy with the endorsement that he left the Presidential Villa’s banquet hall when the announcement was made.
Senator Ndume has been a part of Nigeria’s National Assembly since 2003. He first served in the House of Representatives for two terms before moving to the Senate in 2011, where he has represented Borno South ever since.
“I was there but that was not why I was there; 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, and that does not mean I am not an APC member. The majority had its way but few of us felt that was not right.
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.
I hope that he 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”he said
His words highlight that not everyone in the APC supports Tinubu’s bid for a second term. It also shows the challenges the country faces today, which many Nigerians hope their leaders will address.
