Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South in the National Assembly, has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu for assembling an inner circle of advisers who lack political acumen and grassroots connections.
In a recent interview, Ndume alleged that these aides are disconnected from the realities of Nigerian politics, focusing instead on elite lifestyles in areas like Ikoyi and Victoria Island.
During his appearance on Arise Television's 'Prime Time,' Ndume stated, “He just picked people that don’t know anybody. 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.”
He further emphasized that Tinubu's success as Lagos State Governor was due to a team willing to provide honest feedback, contrasting it with the current administration where aides reportedly avoid confronting the President with the truth.
“Instead of bringing in his team that would look at him in the face and tell him the truth, he decided to surround himself with people that don’t know politics,” Ndume added.
Ndume's remarks come amid growing dissatisfaction in northern Nigeria, warning of potential electoral repercussions if the administration does not address key concerns. He urged Tinubu to include more politically savvy individuals in his cabinet to foster better governance and accountability.
This criticism highlights ongoing debates about the composition of Nigeria's executive team and its impact on national policy making.