Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has publicly distanced himself from the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term, warning that such political moves do not guarantee electoral success.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the seasoned lawmaker criticized the endorsement made by 22 APC governors on May 22, 2025, noting that Nigerians are struggling with economic hardship, rising living costs, and worsening insecurity.
“Nigerians cannot see any hope; they are doubting the Renewed Hope,” Ndume said, referring to President Tinubu’s campaign slogan.
Ndume, who has served in the National Assembly since 2003, disclosed that he walked out of the Presidential Villa’s Banquet Hall when the governors’ endorsement was announced, explaining that he attended for a summit, not a political declaration.
“I was there but that was not why I was there; I was there for a summit. When I realised that it was not a summit and a voice vote was put about the endorsement of Mr. President, I just left. That does not mean I am not an APC member. The majority had its way, but few of us felt that was not right,” he said.
The senator drew historical parallels, citing former President Goodluck Jonathan, who received the backing of 22 PDP governors in 2015 but still lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari.
“Jonathan had 22 governors endorsing him like was done now. And what happened? Jonathan lost woefully. A lot of money was spent. Even the election was shifted, but we are not learning our lessons. I pity Mr. President,” Ndume added.
His remarks have sparked fresh debates within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and among political analysts regarding President Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027 amid Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic challenges.
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