Senator representing Kogi West, Sunday Karimi, has urged Chief Whip of the Senate, Mohammed Ali Ndume, to refrain from making derogatory statements against President Bola Tinubu-led government.
In an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, Ndume had said the federal government’s inability to address security challenges and other issues is a major challenge, adding that some ministers are unable to meet with President Bola Tinubu to discuss the matter.
He had said: “The major problem with this government is that its doors are closed, to the extent that even some ministers cannot see the President, not to mention members of the National Assembly, who do not have the opportunity to meet with him and discuss the issues affecting their constituencies.”
Ndume later told journalists at the National Assembly that the president had lost touch with reality as some forces had caged him at Aso Rock.
- UNDP opens Lagos fintech hub to break investment barriers
- $1.3bn Malabu case: Abacha family should just keep quiet – Minister
Weighing in, Senator Karimi, in a statement, emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and criticism in governance.
He said many of Senator Ndume’s allegations lack substantiated evidence and are driven by a “pull-down syndrome” rather than a genuine commitment to improving governance.
“As an experienced legislator with over two decades of service in the National Assembly, Senator Ndume is urged to exercise caution in his statements and avoid making inflammatory remarks that could further polarize the polity and divide the nation,” he said.
Senator Karimi called on Ndume to adopt a more constructive and responsible approach to criticism.
“It is essential for all stakeholders in governance to prioritize the collective interests of the nation above personal agendas and political vendettas,” he added.