In a recent interview on Arise TV, Senator Ali Ndume criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, claiming that his political appointments do not reflect the federal character principles outlined in the Nigerian constitution. However, the presidency responding to Ali Ndume has addressed his remarks, describing them as hypocritical.
In a statement issues by Tinubu’s media aide Bayo Onanuga, the presidency pointed out that while Ndume spoke out against what he labeled “lopsided appointments,” he conveniently overlooked that two people from his own senatorial district were recently appointed to top positions at NNPC Limited. The Chairman of NNPC, appointed by President Tinubu, is from Ndume’s constituency. If the appointments are indeed “tribal,” the presidency questions how two of Ndume’s kinsmen were able to secure major roles.
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Onanuga described Ndume as someone who often focuses more on gaining media attention than on the facts. It stated that his criticisms lack substance and contribute to divisive narratives rather than constructive dialogue.
President Tinubu, according to the presidency, is committed to creating a government that represents all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic or regional backgrounds. His appointments, they say, are driven by merit, integrity, geographical balance, and the ability to serve the Nigerian people, rather than the selective tribal considerations suggested by Ndume.
The presidency urges Ndume to lift the quality of public discourse and refrain from spreading misinformation. Such behavior, they argue, does a disservice to the nation and is not what is expected from a Nigerian Senator.
