Politics
Ndume Slams “Money Politics” As Race For Senate Presidency Heats Up
The Senate leadership dispute has been shown to be mostly about financial influence, according to Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
The battle for the number three citizen position appears to be between Akpabio from the South-South, Orji Uzor Kalu from the South East and Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari from the North West region — all members of the ruling APC.
While the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and APC’s National Working Committee were reported to have endorsed Akpabio’s candidacy, Kalu and Yari have insisted on pursing their separate ambitions for the seat.
Also Read: 10th NASS: Lawan joins race for Senate Presidency despite zoning
According to ENIGERIA, Ndume gave two main explanations for his decision to get out of the running.
He first cited the President’s advice to rethink his candidature and then the widely held belief that he lacked the financial wherewithal to distribute among senators.
The legislator, who had previously run for the Senate Presidency in the ninth assembly, endorsed Godswill Akpabio in the current campaign during his appearance on Arise TV on Tuesday.
He emphasised that the principles of stability, fairness, and equity drove his endorsement.
“It is regrettable that the Senate Presidency and the leadership contest have become more about monetary influence rather than the capacity, capability, and other qualifications that should hold greater significance,” lamented Ndume.
He further elaborated, “Indeed, I am leading the campaign for Akpabio for reasons I have previously stated. It is crucial to establish stability, equity, justice, and fairness in our country, given the heightened tensions arising from various issues, including zoning and religion.”
The senator also acknowledged his conversation with the President, which led to his decision to step down. “Considering that money is now playing a more prominent role than qualifications, and recognizing my own financial limitations to engage in this battle, I obliged and chose to support Akpabio,” Ndume explained.
