Ali Ndume, the senator representing Borno South, has expressed his reservations regarding President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors for a second term in office. Speaking during an interview on television, Ndume, a vocal critic of Tinubu, revealed that he did not join in endorsing the president.

Highlighting the risks of relying on endorsements from party governors, Ndume referenced the 2015 elections, where 22 governors of the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) endorsed then-President Goodluck Jonathan, who ultimately lost the election to Muhammadu Buhari of the APC.

In May, 22 APC governors officially adopted Tinubu as the party’s candidate for the upcoming 2027 elections. However, Ndume clarified that he does not support this decision, despite being present at the Presidential Villa during the endorsement event.

“Things are very bad in the country; Nigerians cannot see any hope; they are doubting the Renewed Hope,” Ndume stated, further explaining his departure from the endorsement gathering. “I was there for a summit, but when I realized it was not a summit and a voice vote was taking place for the endorsement of Mr. President, I just left. That does not mean I am not an APC member. The majority had its way, but a few of us felt that was not right.”

He cautioned Tinubu by reflecting on historical precedent, asserting, “It happened during Jonathan. That does not mean anything. Politicians are decamping, but the people who are the voters are not decamping. I hope that he would look back historically and see that the gathering of people to endorse you does not mean anything.”

Ndume concluded by reiterating his concerns, reminding that despite the 22 governors’ support for Jonathan, he suffered a significant defeat. “A lot of money was spent. Even the election was shifted, but we are not learning our lessons. I pity Mr. President,” he added.