The Senate has taken a decisive step by removing Senator Ali Ndume from his role as Majority Whip, a position he held representing Borno South, and appointing Tahir Monguno from Borno North in his place. This decision, made through vocal affirmation among the lawmakers, also stripped Ndume of his position as Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, reassigning him to chair the Committee on Tourism.
The move came after a directive from the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The party’s national chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and Secretary, Barrister Ajibola Bashiru, conveyed their dissatisfaction with Ndume’s recent statements, which they deemed inappropriate. In their letter to the Senate Caucus, they criticized Ndume for his remarks, prompting the Senate’s action.
Ndume had earlier expressed concerns about the nation’s challenges, particularly regarding food scarcity and security. In an interview, he remarked critically on the government’s response to these crises, suggesting a disconnect between the presidency and the realities faced by Nigerians. His comments sparked a backlash, notably from supporters of APC stalwart Bola Tinubu, including Senator Sunday Karimi (Kogi West) and other party members who viewed Ndume’s remarks as disparaging.
Following the swift removal of Ndume, Tahir Monguno assumed the role of Majority Whip, greeted by enthusiastic APC lawmakers who celebrated the change with photographs and congratulations.
