Ali Ndume Says Tinubu Succeeded as Lagos Governor by Relying on Competent Aides, Criticises Current Inner Circle

Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, has attributed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s success as a former governor of Lagos State to his ability to work with competent and experienced individuals, while expressing concern that such qualities are lacking among some of the president’s current aides.

Speaking on Wednesday during Prime Time, a political affairs programme on Arise Television, Ndume said Tinubu’s earlier achievements were driven largely by the calibre of people around him at the time.

“The president had good people around him when he was the governor of Lagos; that was why he succeeded,” Ndume said. “Most of the good people are not there anymore; they have been sidelined.”

Criticism of Tinubu’s Current Advisers

The former Senate Leader criticised some members of President Tinubu’s present advisory team, describing them as disconnected from Nigeria’s political and social realities. According to Ndume, such aides lack grassroots political understanding and exposure beyond elite urban centres.

“He just picked people that don’t know anybody,” Ndume said. “They only know Ikoyi and Victoria Island, and from there they fly to London or America, where their families are living.”

He argued that advisers with such backgrounds are ill-equipped to properly interpret the country’s political mood or offer guidance that reflects the lived realities of ordinary Nigerians.

“So they are not even full Nigerians,” Ndume added. “These people don’t know politics.”

Akahi News gathered that Ndume’s remarks reflect growing internal concerns within political circles about the composition of the president’s inner team and its impact on governance and public perception.

Northern Discontent and Electoral Implications

Ndume also addressed the issue of political discontent in northern Nigeria, dismissing claims that the region is largely satisfied with the current administration. He warned that such narratives do not align with realities on the ground.

“In the north, anybody that tells you that the north is not grumbling now is not speaking the truth,” he said.

Asked how significant the dissatisfaction could be, Ndume said it would ultimately manifest at the polls if left unaddressed.

“It will be loud in their votes if nothing is done about it,” he stated.

According to Akahi News, concerns over economic hardship, insecurity, and perceived marginalisation have continued to fuel dissatisfaction across parts of northern Nigeria, with political leaders increasingly raising alarm over its possible electoral consequences.

Tinubu Still Has Time to Act — Ndume

Despite his criticisms, Ndume said President Tinubu still has the opportunity to reverse the situation. He noted that while the president may be strategising for re-election, public acceptance remains crucial.

“Mr President, as a politician who has gone through it all, is strategising to win the election,” Ndume said. “But you only declare yourself the winner when you are acceptable to the people.”

He expressed optimism that corrective measures could still be taken if the president listens to concerns and makes necessary adjustments.

“The good thing about it is that the president can change things, can turn things around,” Ndume added.

Akahi News learnt that Ndume’s comments have already sparked reactions across political and social platforms, with supporters and critics alike debating the broader implications for the Tinubu administration.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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