Ndume Defends Tinubu Relationship: Criticising Policy, Not Personality
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has clarified his stance regarding President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that while he holds Tinubu in high regard as a mentor, his critiques are directed solely at certain government policies, not at the president personally.
In a recent interview, Ndume stated, “I am not a critic of the government. It is our government. President Tinubu is one of my mentors.”
He further explained that his criticisms are aimed at policies he believes could be improved for the betterment of Nigeria, stating, “I criticise policies, not Tinubu. I criticised policies of Buhari, but I’m closer to Tinubu than Buhari.”
Ndume has been particularly vocal about certain tax reform bills proposed by the Tinubu administration, describing them as “dead on arrival” and urging their immediate withdrawal.
He emphasized that his opposition is rooted in concern for the welfare of Nigerians and the potential impact of such policies.
Despite these policy disagreements, Ndume maintains a respectful relationship with President Tinubu. He recounted a recent interaction where the president expressed a desire for more frequent engagements, highlighting the cordial nature of their personal relationship.