Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume has rejected the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Tourism. The decision follows his removal as Senate Chief Whip by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The APC took this step following Ndume’s critical remarks about President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking to journalists at his residence in Maiduguri, Ndume emphasized his commitment to his principles and his constituents. He declared, “I am not a tourist and not good in tourism,” highlighting his lack of interest and experience in the sector. Ndume revealed he hasn’t traveled abroad in over a decade, underscoring his focus on domestic issues.
The Senator also addressed the new minimum wage, recently approved by President Bola Tinubu. Ndume praised the move to increase the wage to N70,000 but pointed out its insufficiency given the high cost of living. “The minimum wage is still minimal compared to a 50kg bag of rice which costs over N70,000,” he noted.
Ndume’s removal from his position as Senate Chief Whip has been a topic of discussion. Reflecting on the event, Ndume stated, “I am a democrat and a realist, and someone who always says the truth no matter whose ox is gored.” He cited Theodore Roosevelt’s definition of patriotism to support his stance on speaking out against inefficiencies in leadership.
Despite his dismissal, Ndume expressed no regrets over his previous comments and thanked Nigerians for their support. He also stressed that his political future lies in the hands of his constituents, emphasizing his role as a representative of Borno South.
Addressing rumors about a potential switch to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ndume reiterated his loyalty to the APC. He stated, “It is my people, my constituency, and my supporters that will decide for me whether to stay in APC, join another party, or quit politics.”
Regarding legal action, Ndume made it clear he would not pursue the matter in court, choosing instead to trust in divine justice. He called on his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding as the situation evolves, urging them to pray for peace and prosperity in Nigeria.
