Visibly frustrated Ali Ndume alleges Tinubu’s government dominated by “thieves”

The senator’s comments have sent shockwaves through the political landscape, with reactions pouring in from across party lines. While some view his statement as a courageous act of whistle-blowing, others see it as political posturing ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a startling and controversial statement, Senator Ali Ndume has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is riddled with corruption, boldly describing it as being dominated by “thieves.”

The senator, who represents Borno South and serves as the Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, made the remarks during a media briefing, according to 247ureport.com.

He expressed deep concern over what he termed a growing culture of impunity and unchecked looting within the corridors of power.

“This government is full of thieves. They are just stealing money shamelessly while Nigerians are suffering,” Senator Ndume said, visibly frustrated. “We did not fight for democracy to watch it be overtaken by criminals disguised as public servants.”

Ndume, a prominent member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), did not name specific individuals but indicated that several key figures in the administration are enriching themselves at the expense of the Nigerian people.

He criticized the lack of accountability and transparency in the disbursement of public funds, particularly in areas related to poverty alleviation, fuel subsidy reforms, and infrastructural projects.

“It is not just about changing ministers or launching new programmes. We must ensure that those handling the nation’s resources are honest and patriotic,” Ndume stated.

The senator’s comments have sent shockwaves through the political landscape, with reactions pouring in from across party lines. While some view his statement as a courageous act of whistle-blowing, others see it as political posturing ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency has not issued an official response to Ndume’s claims. However, sources within the administration suggest that a rebuttal may be imminent.

This is not the first time Ndume has publicly criticized the federal government, but his latest outburst marks one of the most direct attacks on President Tinubu’s leadership from within the ruling party itself.

Observers warn that such internal dissent could signal deeper cracks within the APC, even as the country grapples with economic challenges, rising insecurity, and growing public discontent.

Ndume slams Bayo Onanuga, calls him a Senior Domestic Servant to Tinubu

Senator Ali Ndume from Borno State, on a separate occasion while fielding questions on Channels Television on Friday April 11, 2025, had slammed Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Presidebt Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, over his recent attack on him.

Onanuga, in a reaction to Ndume’s earlier interview on Arise Television wherein he (Ndume) criticized political appointments under President Tinubu as lopsided, had described Ndume’s criticism as “hypocritical” and “selective”.

Angered by president’s spokesman’s reaction, Senator Ndume later in an interview on Channels Television described Mr. Onanuga, who he said is older than him by just two years, as a Senior Domestic Servant to President Tinubu.