“The President Surrounds Himself with People Who Don’t Know Politics” — Ndume

Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s inner circle, arguing that the President is surrounded by aides who lack political experience and grassroots understanding.

Speaking on ARISE Television’s Prime Time on Wednesday, Ndume warned that growing discontent in northern Nigeria could have electoral consequences if not addressed.

“Anybody that tells you the North is not grumbling now is not telling the truth,” he said. “It will be reflected in their votes if nothing is done. The good thing is that the President can turn things around.”

Ndume recalled participating in early meetings between Tinubu and northern elders, describing the sessions as constructive. Yet, he said follow-up engagements stalled despite assurances from the President.

While stopping short of blaming Tinubu directly, Ndume highlighted the role of the President’s advisers in current challenges. “You know what I’m suspecting? The President is not the problem; it is the people around the President that are the problem,” he said, contrasting today’s team with the strong advisers Tinubu had as Lagos governor.

He further criticised some aides for being isolated and disconnected from the wider Nigerian populace. “They only know Ikoyi, Victoria Island and from there they fly to London or America where their families are living. They are not even full Nigerians.”

Ndume warned that without addressing these concerns, particularly in the North, dissatisfaction could grow and influence voting patterns in future elections.