Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action against officials he described as “kakistocrats” allegedly dominating the Presidency.
Ndume issued the warning while commenting on the composition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2027 Presidential Campaign Council. He argued that the structure did not address his concerns about the competence of some officials working around the President.
The senator said the continued presence of what he described as unqualified officials could undermine the Tinubu administration and expose the government to avoidable controversies.
According to Ndume, recent developments involving a purported government agency and the suspension of a permanent secretary in the Presidency showed weaknesses that needed to be addressed.
He, however, credited President Tinubu for allowing investigations into the alleged irregularities to proceed, but maintained that more decisive action was required to prevent similar incidents.
Ndume also criticised the composition of the APC presidential campaign council ahead of the 2027 election. He questioned the decision to include President Tinubu as chairman, arguing that the APC leadership should take responsibility for selling the administration’s achievements to Nigerians.
He said the President should concentrate on governing while the party leadership handles the political task of presenting the administration’s record to voters.
The lawmaker further suggested that Tinubu may not have been fully involved in the process that produced the campaign council, pointing to complaints that followed its announcement.
Ndume stressed that his criticism was not motivated by personal interests but by concerns about Nigeria’s political system and the performance of the current administration.
The senator also discussed the government’s economic policies, particularly the removal of petrol subsidy.
While acknowledging that the subsidy removal was a difficult decision, he said its consequences had created significant hardship for Nigerians.
He noted that although some Nigerians supported the removal of the subsidy, rising living costs had become a major concern and could affect the APC’s prospects ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ndume also criticised some presidential aides for the manner in which they respond to criticism of the administration.
He argued that government spokespersons should focus on addressing the substance of criticisms rather than attacking individuals who raise concerns about government policies.
The senator advised the administration to engage critics based on the issues they raise and provide explanations about its policies and programmes.
His comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the APC beginning preparations for its campaign and opposition parties also mobilising supporters.
Ndume’s remarks are likely to generate further debate within the ruling party over the performance of the administration, the quality of political appointments and the strategy being adopted ahead of the next presidential election.
The senator maintained that President Tinubu still has an opportunity to strengthen his administration by addressing weaknesses within his government and ensuring that competent officials are placed in positions of responsibility.
