Senator Ndume Rejects Tinubu’s 2027 Endorsement, Cites Nation’s Hardship

BORNO — In a bold divergence from his party’s position, Borno South Senator Ali Ndume has openly distanced himself from the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics program, the veteran lawmaker expressed deep reservations over the premature endorsement and the current state of Nigeria, warning that such political moves may not reflect the will of the people.

Ndume’s remarks come just days after 22 governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) unanimously endorsed President Tinubu for re-election in 2027 during an event at the Presidential Villa’s Banquet Hall on May 22, 2025.

The senator, however, emphasized that the endorsement was misplaced given the prevailing socio-economic challenges. “Things are very bad in the country,” he said, pointing to the biting economic hardship, rising inflation, and escalating insecurity that many Nigerians are grappling with.

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Ndume, who has been a legislator since 2003 and is currently serving his fourth term in the Senate, clarified that he attended the Villa gathering under the impression that it was a policy summit. Upon realizing that the event was being used to stage a vocal endorsement for Tinubu’s second term, he said he walked out in protest.

“I was there but that was not why I was there; I was there for a summit,” Ndume explained. “When I realized that it was not a summit and a voice vote was put about the endorsement of Mr President, I just left.”

Though acknowledging that he remains a member of the APC, Ndume firmly stated that not all party members agreed with the endorsement move. “The majority had its way, but few of us felt that was not right,” he added.

Historical Parallels and Political Lessons

In a pointed reference, Ndume compared the current situation to the 2015 election cycle, when former President Goodluck Jonathan was endorsed by 22 governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but still lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari. He suggested that the endorsement of Tinubu by APC governors does not guarantee political success, noting that the Nigerian electorate remains discerning.

“Jonathan had 22 governors endorsing him like was done now. And what happened? Jonathan lost woefully,” Ndume said. “A lot of money was spent. Even the election was shifted. But we are not learning our lessons. I pity Mr President.”

The senator added that while politicians may switch allegiances or make endorsements, the ultimate power lies with the people, who are the real voters. “Politicians are decamping but the people who are the voters are not decamping,” he said.

Rising Discontent Amid Economic Woes

Ndume’s criticism reflects broader dissatisfaction among many Nigerians who feel disconnected from the “Renewed Hope” agenda championed by President Tinubu. The phrase, which formed the centerpiece of Tinubu’s campaign, has come under intense scrutiny amid worsening living conditions, escalating food and fuel prices, and rising insecurity in several parts of the country.

“Nigerians cannot see any hope. They are doubting the Renewed Hope,” Ndume lamented, stressing that the government must refocus its efforts on addressing these urgent issues rather than engaging in premature political campaigning.

Political Implications Within the APC

Ndume’s public opposition to the endorsement underscores growing internal tensions within the APC. While party unity remains the official narrative, cracks are beginning to appear as prominent voices like Ndume’s raise concerns about strategy, timing, and public perception.

Analysts suggest that the lawmaker’s stance could resonate with other silent dissenters within the party who feel that the endorsement was not only hasty but could also backfire by alienating voters already burdened by economic hardship.

With over two years left before the 2027 general election, Ndume’s remarks serve as a warning that the APC’s focus must remain on governance rather than political coronation. “Endorsements don’t win elections—performance does,” he seemed to imply.

As a seasoned lawmaker with over two decades in national politics, Ndume’s perspective carries weight. His willingness to speak against the party line may signal a deeper reckoning within the APC, especially as the party prepares for a midterm review of Tinubu’s administration.

While the endorsement of President Tinubu by APC governors may have been intended to project unity and momentum for a second term, Senator Ndume’s strong opposition offers a sobering reminder that real support must come from the people—not political pageantry.

For a nation grappling with economic despair and insecurity, the road to 2027 must be paved with tangible improvements, not symbolic endorsements. Whether the APC heeds this caution remains to be seen, but for now, Ndume has made it clear: hope must be earned, not assumed.