Senator Ali Ndume has expressed his disapproval over the recent endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term by governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that such endorsements may not guarantee electoral victory.
TJ News Nigeria reports that Ndume, a prominent APC lawmaker representing Borno South Senatorial District, made his position known during his appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme.
The lawmaker drew parallels between the current endorsement of Tinubu by APC governors and the 2015 presidential election, where then-President Goodluck Jonathan, despite being endorsed by 22 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors, still lost to Muhammadu Buhari.
Why Ndume Opposes Tinubu’s Endorsement
According to Senator Ndume, the unanimous endorsement of President Tinubu by 22 APC governors on May 22, 2025, does not reflect the mood of the Nigerian people. He described the endorsement as a political ritual that has proven ineffective in swaying voters during general elections.
“It happened before, not once, not twice. It happened during Jonathan. That does not mean anything. Politicians are decamping but the people who are the voters are not decamping,” Ndume stated.
The senator disclosed that he deliberately walked out of the venue during the event at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, noting that the gathering was originally convened under the guise of a summit.
“I was there but that was not why I was there; I was there for a summit and when I realised that it was not a summit and 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,” Ndume explained.
Nigeria’s Current Challenges Cited
TJ News Nigeria gathered that the lawmaker, who has been a vocal critic of certain policies of the current administration, cited Nigeria’s worsening economic hardship as a key reason for his objection to early endorsement of Tinubu.
He highlighted:
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The skyrocketing cost of living
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Rising insecurity across regions
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Growing public discontent with the Renewed Hope agenda
“Nigerians cannot see any hope; they are doubting the Renewed Hope,” Ndume lamented.
“Endorsements Don’t Guarantee Victory” — Ndume Warns Tinubu
Drawing on historical precedent, Ndume cited how Jonathan’s widespread endorsement did not prevent his defeat in 2015, despite enormous financial and political backing.
“Jonathan had 22 governors then 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.
Ndume’s Political Track Record
Senator Ali Ndume is one of Nigeria’s most experienced legislators. TJ News Nigeria learnt that he has been a federal lawmaker since 2003, beginning his legislative career in the House of Representatives, representing Chibok/Damboa/Gwoza Federal Constituency of Borno State. He transitioned to the Senate in 2011 and has remained the representative of Borno South Senatorial District to date.
Known for his outspokenness, Ndume has consistently voiced his opinions on national matters, including issues affecting the APC and its leadership.
Growing Political Tensions Ahead of 2027
Ndume’s position reflects a growing unease within sections of the APC over the rush to endorse Tinubu for a second term amidst widespread socio-economic challenges facing the country.
While APC governors appear united in their public support for the President, voices like Ndume’s indicate that internal disagreements may shape the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
TJ News Nigeria will continue to provide updates on Nigeria’s evolving political landscape as developments unfold.
