Presidency Slams Ndume as ‘Hypocritical’ and ‘Divisive’ Over Criticism of Tinubu’s Appointments

The Presidency has sharply criticized Senator Ali Ndume for his recent comments regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointments, describing the lawmaker’s remarks as hypocritical and divisive. Ndume, representing Borno South, had accused President Tinubu of making constitutionally questionable appointments that he claimed were unevenly distributed across regions. His comments triggered a significant debate, particularly surrounding the President’s approach to inclusivity in government.

In response, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, dismissed Ndume’s allegations as misleading. “Senator Ali Ndume’s latest outburst on TV about so-called ‘lopsided appointments’ by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reeks of hypocrisy and selective perception,” Onanuga stated.

The President’s adviser defended the appointment strategy, emphasizing that the appointments were based on merit, integrity, regional balance, and the capacity to serve the Nigerian people. He rejected Ndume’s criticisms as part of a narrative driven by tribalism, urging the senator to refrain from spreading misinformation. “We urge Ndume to elevate public discourse and avoid misinformation and baseless criticism,” Onanuga added.

Onanuga also pointed out what he saw as Ndume’s selective memory, specifically highlighting the appointments of two individuals from Ndume’s region to top roles at NNPC Limited. “If Tinubu and his surrogates’ choices are so ‘tribal,’ how did two of Ndume’s kinsmen clinch NNPC’s top roles?” Onanuga remarked, questioning the senator’s stance on fairness.

Further criticizing Ndume’s political behavior, Onanuga accused him of engaging in theatrics rather than providing constructive criticism. “His habit of firing half-baked criticisms—only to be contradicted by facts—proves he’s more interested in headline-chasing, rabble rousing, and stoking divisive narratives than offering constructive criticism,” he said.

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of President Tinubu’s commitment to national unity. “President Tinubu is deeply committed to fostering a government that embraces all Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic or regional affiliations,” Onanuga stated, emphasizing the President’s dedication to building a prosperous Nigeria by harnessing the nation’s diversity.