Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has reaffirmed his respect for President Bola Tinubu, clarifying that his critiques are directed at government policies, not the president himself.
In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ndume emphasized his long-standing relationship with Tinubu, calling him one of his mentors.
He explained that while he may disagree with certain policies, his criticisms are meant to foster constructive dialogue for the improvement of Nigeria.
“I am not an adversary of the government. It is our government. President Tinubu is one of my mentors,” Ndume stated. He further clarified a viral image of him with Tinubu, saying it was taken during a lighthearted moment.
Ndume explained that during a conversation about a planned visit to the president’s residence, Tinubu invited him to come over.
He also shared that despite the Nigerian Army Remembrance Day coinciding with his daughter’s wedding, Tinubu chose to stay and attend the wedding, which Ndume found noteworthy.
Ndume made it clear that his criticism is policy-based. “I do not criticize my elders. I respect Tinubu as my senior, even if I disagree with him on some issues. My criticism is aimed at policies, not at Tinubu himself. I did the same with President Buhari’s policies, even though I was closer to Tinubu than Buhari,” he said.
In November, Ndume had publicly criticized Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills, calling them “dead on arrival.” He argued that the government should focus on reducing taxes instead of burdening Nigerians further, particularly highlighting the discontent surrounding the proposed VAT bill.
“We need to listen to the people. They are against the VAT bill, and it should be withdrawn. I urge the president to reconsider the advice from the National Economic Council and the Northern Governors’ Forum,” Ndume stated.
The senator also urged President Tinubu to focus on effectively implementing the federal budget, with particular attention to security and the welfare of citizens.
“If the budget is properly implemented, Nigerians will benefit. Security and welfare should be the top priorities, and everything else will follow,” Ndume concluded.
