Tinubu Surrounded By People Who Can’t Tell Him He’s Wrong – Ndume

Senator Ali Ndume has said President Bola Tinubu is surrounded by people who are unwilling to tell him when his policies are not working, arguing that many of the President’s close associates have long depended on him for their livelihood.

The senator made the remarks during an interview on Trust TV, where he also disclosed that he has had only one meeting with President Tinubu since the latter assumed office in May 2023 despite making repeated efforts to discuss issues of national importance with him.

Ndume said he had written two letters to the President, outlining his desire to meet with him to discuss Nigeria’s worsening security situation and the welfare of citizens, which he described as the primary responsibility of any government.

“I met Tinubu only once since 2023. I’ve written two letters to him and mentioned the points I want to discuss with him, especially about what can be done regarding security and the welfare of the citizens. Those are the main purposes of government,” Ndume said.

The lawmaker argued that one of the President’s major problems is the composition of his inner circle, claiming that many of those around him had depended on his support long before he became President.

“The problem of Mr. President is the people around him. I have said it before. Ninety-five per cent of them are his dependants. Even before he became President, he was taking care of them. That is one of the problems of his government,” he stated.

According to Ndume, such a relationship makes it difficult for presidential aides and associates to challenge policies or offer contrary opinions when necessary.

“When you have people around you that are your dependants, they cannot look you in the face and say, ‘Mr. President, this cannot work,’” he added.

Ndume maintained that frank advice and constructive criticism are essential for effective governance, particularly in addressing the country’s security challenges and improving citizens’ welfare.