The All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a cautionary response to Senator Ali Ndume, following his remarks suggesting that President Bola Tinubu could face the same political fate as former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2027 general elections.
Ndume, a former Chief Whip of the Senate and current lawmaker representing Borno South, had during a Sunday appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today”, warned that unless President Tinubu quickly addresses the growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians, he risks an electoral upset similar to Jonathan’s defeat in 2015.
Ndume Cautions Tinubu Against Political Complacency
Speaking on the program, Ndume highlighted the widening gap between political elites and the general voting population, noting that while political endorsements and defections into the APC may create the illusion of growing support, the reality on the ground suggests deep voter disillusionment.
“People are tired. The average Nigerian is not happy. Politicians are the ones making noise in support of Tinubu, not the people,” Ndume stated.
He revealed that he had attended the recent APC summit, which many party members used as an opportunity to endorse President Tinubu for a second term. However, he disclosed that upon realizing the event’s true agenda, he walked out in protest, citing disagreement with the premature endorsement.
Ndume drew parallels between the current situation and Jonathan’s failed re-election bid in 2015, noting that despite securing the endorsement of 22 PDP governors at the time, Jonathan lost to Muhammadu Buhari, who was then the opposition candidate under the APC.
APC Responds: Dissent Welcomed, But Rules Must Be Respected
Reacting to Ndume’s comments, Bala Ibrahim, the APC’s Director of Publicity, acknowledged the senator’s stature and his history of outspoken commentary. He clarified that while the APC remains a liberal and tolerant political platform, there are boundaries that must not be crossed.
“Senator Ndume is a senior and respected member of the party. This is not the first time he has voiced a dissenting opinion. The APC, being a progressive party, respects internal democracy and differing viewpoints, provided they align with the party’s overall vision and values,” Ibrahim said in an interview with The Punch on Monday.
He further explained that while the APC is open to constructive criticism, there are internal mechanisms for discipline in cases where members breach the party's code of conduct.
“Every organization has rules. If any member, regardless of rank, goes against the established norms in a way that harms the party’s image or unity, disciplinary action may be taken. That process, however, lies with the appropriate bodies not individuals like myself,” he added.
Party Unity vs. Freedom of Expression
Ndume’s comments have once again stirred debate around internal party democracy and freedom of expression within Nigeria’s major political parties. While some view his warnings as a bold and necessary check on power, others within the APC see it as a potentially destabilizing narrative at a time when the party is trying to consolidate its leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political analysts have noted that Ndume’s remarks may resonate with the frustrations of ordinary Nigerians, particularly in the face of economic hardship, inflation, and security challenges, all of which remain pressing issues for the Tinubu administration.
Whether Ndume will face formal sanctions or whether the party will opt for reconciliation remains to be seen, but the exchange underscores the growing tension between loyalty to party leadership and accountability to the public mood.
Post a Comment