In an interview on Sunrise Daily on Channels TV, former Presidential Spokesperson Laolu Akande expressed strong opinions regarding the Senate’s decision to remove Senator Ali Ndume as Chief Whip, questioning the transparency and party democracy within Nigeria’s legislative process.
Akande, the host of #InsideSources, addressed the issue of whether President Bola Tinubu was aware of Ndume’s removal, stating, “Your guess is as good as mine.” He highlighted the lack of open party democracy in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for constructive criticism and transparency in political affairs. “Senator Ali Ndume, what happened to your party? How come these issues were not properly discussed and publicized?” Akande questioned, criticizing the absence of robust debate within the ruling party’s caucus.
Akande condemned the Senate’s handling of Ndume’s removal, particularly the reading of a letter from the party chairman on the Senate floor, which he deemed unnecessary and theatrical. He pointed out the passive response from opposition party members during the proceedings, calling for a focus on national interests rather than partisan squabbles. “I think it is not acceptable to have suspended Senator Ndume on the basis of a letter from the APC National Chairman,” Akande stated, adding, “How come you are reading a letter on the floor of the Senate written by the chairman of your party? How does that concern PDP members and other parties?”
Regarding the process of leadership selection in the National Assembly, Akande suggested that such decisions should be handled discreetly within party caucuses, rather than through public displays that undermine legislative integrity. “It is baffling that senators sit idly by while such actions occur,” Akande remarked, urging elected officials to prioritize public interests over personal gains. He criticized the lack of advocacy on critical issues such as the minimum wage, suggesting a disconnect between legislative responsibilities and personal agendas.
Akande also addressed the silence of Senator Ndume on significant issues such as the controversy over 150 million naira worth of SUVs and the appointment of cronies in high-leg positions. “Now, because Ali Ndume didn’t get access to the president, he is bringing the matter up,” Akande noted. He called for a reevaluation of the political culture in Nigeria, advocating for greater openness and a commitment to democratic principles within all political parties.
Furthermore, Akande underscored the broader implications of such legislative maneuvers, noting that they erode public trust in the democratic process. He argued that the lack of transparency and internal democracy within political parties often translates to poor governance and a lack of accountability. “When party decisions are shrouded in secrecy and personal interests overshadow the public good, it is the citizens who suffer,” Akande asserted.
He also criticized the Senate President’s willingness to purchase a new aircraft for the President, questioning the timing and necessity of such an expenditure. “I don’t think they want to debunk it. I think that the Senate President again came out to say, ‘If the President needs a jet, we’re going to buy it.’ Is this the right time to buy a new jet for the President?” Akande asked, implying that such priorities reflect a disconnection from the needs of the populace.
Akande called for a more transparent and accountable legislative process, emphasizing that true democracy requires active participation, debate, and a willingness to challenge the status quo for the betterment of society. “Our democracy can only thrive when we hold our leaders accountable and demand transparency at every level,” he concluded.
