Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has reiterated his decision not to align with the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term by 22 All Progressives Congress (APC) governors. Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Ndume emphasized that political endorsements do not necessarily translate to electoral victory.
He drew parallels with the 2015 general elections, where former President Goodluck Jonathan was similarly endorsed by 22 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors but ultimately lost to Muhammadu Buhari of the APC. Ndume warned that the Tinubu administration could face a similar fate if it relies solely on political support within party ranks rather than performance and public trust.
Ndume disclosed that he walked out of the event at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where Tinubu was endorsed, clarifying that he attended for a summit and not for a political declaration. “When I realized it was not a summit and a voice vote was called to endorse the President, I quietly left. That doesn’t mean I’m not a loyal APC member,” he explained.
According to Ndume, party leadership must learn from past experiences. “We’ve seen this before. Endorsements do not necessarily reflect the will of the people. Voters are not decamping with politicians. The same scenario played out under Jonathan, he had 22 governors behind him and still lost. Massive resources were deployed, the election was even postponed, yet he was defeated.”
Ndume’s remarks reflect a growing internal dissent within the APC as it gears up for the 2027 elections, and suggest that the Senator is advocating for a more people-centric approach rather than political theatrics.
