APC leaders in Borno South Senatorial District have risen in defence of Mohammed Ali Ndume, urging the National Working Committee of the party to reverse his removal as Chief Whip of the Senate.
The leaders stated that Ndume did nothing wrong by raising concerns about the challenges being faced by Nigerians.
They also dismissed claims that Ndume was planning to defect to another political party.
During a press conference in Abuja yesterday, one of the APC leaders, Baba Ahmed Mustapha, condemned the recent attacks on Ndume by Daniel Bwala.
The leaders questioned why Bwala, whose political track record is inconsistent, would attack Ndume. Mustapha highlighted Bwala’s previous criticism of President Tinubu, stating that Ndume’s observations were within the bounds of the Constitution and the freedom of expression.
The APC leaders acknowledged that Ndume may have his shortcomings as a person and politician, but they commended him for standing up when it mattered most.
They emphasised that Ndume refused to turn a blind eye to the challenges facing the country and advocated for proactive action by the government.
Mustapha pointed out that Ndume’s consistent re-election as a member of the House of Representatives and later as a senator since 2003 is proof of his commitment to his constituents.
Despite not publicly displaying his generosity, Ndume has empowered many of his constituents, and the impacts of his empowerment programs have been evident through his re-elections, he said.
The leaders said they found it surprising that Bwala, who had previously criticised President Tinubu, is now defending him ardently.
They highlighted Bwala’s past statements against Tinubu’s leadership, including quitting the party after the primary where Tinubu emerged the presidential candidate.
They questioned Bwala’s inconsistent political career driven by personal considerations rather than patriotism.
The APC leaders called on the party’s leadership and the Senate to reinstate Ndume as the Chief Whip.
They emphasised that Ndume has no plan to leave the party and urged the leadership to reconsider their decision.