Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, has responded to his colleague, Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South, accusing him of engaging in a 'pull-down syndrome' against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement released on Saturday, Karimi urged Ndume to avoid making derogatory remarks about Tinubu's government, likening Ndume’s behavior to that of a "loose cannon." Karimi emphasized the necessity for constructive dialogue and criticism in governance, accusing Ndume of harboring a personal agenda to undermine the government.
Karimi noted that Ndume's inconsistent criticism was particularly notable given his silence during the previous administration led by President Buhari. He argued that many of Ndume’s allegations lacked substantiated evidence and were more about bringing down the government than genuinely improving governance.
"As an experienced legislator with over two decades of service, Senator Ndume should exercise caution in his statements," Karimi said. "Inflammatory remarks can further polarize the polity and divide the nation. It’s crucial for all stakeholders to prioritize national interests over personal agendas and political vendettas."
Karimi's comments came after Ndume co-sponsored a motion on the country’s food crisis and subsequently criticized Tinubu in various interviews. Ndume claimed that Tinubu was unaware of the country's situation, alleging that he had been "caged" by certain forces within the Villa.
"Mr. President is not in the picture of what is happening outside the Villa. He has been fenced off and caged," Ndume stated. "Many of us won’t go through the backdoor to engage him. Nigerians are getting very angry."
The exchange between the senators highlights the ongoing tensions within the ruling All Progressives Congress regarding the administration's handling of national issues.
