Ogasabi on 9am news reports that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is actively engaging with the Senate leadership to reinstate Senator Ali Ndume as the Chief Whip. This move comes just one month after Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, was removed from the position due to his outspoken criticism of President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC.
Ndume had previously accused President Tinubu of being isolated from the struggles Nigerians face, a comment that sparked anger within the APC. In response, the party swiftly replaced him with Senator Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North, following a directive from APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, and National Secretary, Senator Basiru Ajibola. The Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, confirmed this change with a unanimous voice vote from the APC senators.
However, Ogasabi on 9am news recently covered Senator Ndume’s public apology during a two-hour closed-door meeting with the APC’s National Working Committee in Abuja. After expressing regret for his previous actions, Ndume sought to mend ties with the party. APC National Chairman Ganduje confirmed that the party accepted Ndume’s apology, describing the matter as a “family affair.” He stated, “We are communicating with the National Assembly about what has transpired between Senator Ndume and the party. His apology has been accepted, and we hope to see a review of the situation.”
Following the meeting, a source within the party secretariat, speaking to 9am news Nigeria on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the APC had started consultations with the Senate leadership to reconsider Ndume’s removal as Chief Whip. The source emphasized that this issue is being handled as an internal party matter.
National Publicity Director also addressed the situation
Nze Chidi Duru, the APC’s Deputy National Organising Secretary, confirmed the ongoing discussions, noting that such consultations are typically conducted behind closed doors. Bala Ibrahim, the APC’s National Publicity Director, also addressed the situation, asserting that it is not unusual for the executive and legislative branches to reshuffle or reassign roles. He remarked, “This is an internal issue. In both the executive and legislative branches, reshuffles are normal. The legislature has the right to reassign portfolios.”
Ibrahim highlighted that Senator Ndume, as a senior senator, could be reinstated as the chief whip if the Senate and the party deem it appropriate. He emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony within the Senate under Godswill Akpabio’s leadership. “If they decide to reinstate him, they will ensure it is done smoothly, without any complications,” Ibrahim assured.
For more updates on this Breaking news and other political developments, stay connected to 9am news Nigeria.
