Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South has publicly distanced himself from the recent decision by 22 APC governors to back President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the seasoned legislator, who has served in Nigeria’s National Assembly for over two decades, recalled how former President Goodluck Jonathan, despite securing the support of 22 PDP governors in 2015, was defeated in his re-election attempt by Muhammadu Buhari of the APC.
On May 22, 2025, the APC governors collectively endorsed Tinubu as the party’s candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
However, Ndume, a senior figure within the APC, revealed he opposed this move, citing Nigeria’s current dire economic and security challenges.
He expressed deep concern over the country’s worsening living conditions and the insecurity gripping many regions, noting that Nigerians have lost faith in what was branded the “Renewed Hope.”
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Ndume recounted that he left the Presidential Villa’s Banquet Hall abruptly during the endorsement event, explaining, “I was present for a summit, but when it became clear the purpose was to endorse the president by voice vote, I walked out. This doesn’t mean I have left the APC, but a few of us disagreed with the majority decision.”
He warned that such endorsements do not guarantee electoral success, citing Jonathan’s 2015 defeat despite similar backing.
“Endorsements don’t always translate into victory. Jonathan had the support of 22 governors then, yet he lost badly despite heavy spending and election delays. We should learn from history. I feel sorry for the president,” Ndume added.
Ndume has served continuously in the National Assembly since 2003.
He represented Chibok/Damboa/Gwoza Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives for two terms before being elected as Senator for Borno South in 2011, a position he currently holds.
