Presidency warns Sen Ndume over ‘reckless’ TV remarks

The Presidency has issued a strong warning to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, over what it described as reckless and unfounded comments he made on national television concerning President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Ndume, a former Chief Whip of the Senate, recently alleged that the current government has been hijacked by a cabal and claimed that it is dominated by “kleptocrats” and “kakistocrats.” These remarks, aired on a national platform, have attracted sharp criticism from the Presidency.

Responding to the accusations, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, accused Ndume of behaving like a “lone-wolf opposition” within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Onanuga stated that Ndume frequently disseminates misinformation and builds his arguments on questionable and faulty premises.

“Ndume is entitled to his opinion, but he often gets his facts wrong or bases his claims on flimsy foundations,” Onanuga said in a statement on Tuesday. “For example, he lied about General Buratai being ambushed by terrorists. A ranking senator making reckless statements on television cannot command the respect of any right-thinking person.”

Onanuga described Ndume’s comments as unsubstantiated and irresponsible, particularly his sweeping claim that “kleptocrats” and “kakistocrats” control the federal government.

“His allegation is too broad and made without providing a shred of evidence. Does he even understand what ‘kakistocrats’ means, or does he just enjoy throwing around complicated words?” Onanuga questioned.

Defending President Tinubu’s administration, Onanuga highlighted that it is staffed by capable individuals, many of whom were distinguished professionals before joining the government.

“This President has many competent aides who had already established strong reputations in their respective fields. They are doing a commendable job reengineering the country’s economy to build a solid foundation for sustainable growth,” he added.