Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, has said he remains resolute in his criticism of the decision made by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to relocate certain departments from its headquarters in Abuja to Lagos State.
In addition, Ndume reaffirmed his intervention in the relocation of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters to Abuja, emphasizing that his actions were based on factual observations.
The CBN and FAAN recently announced their plans to move some departments from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja to Lagos. Responding to this development, Ndume expressed his dissatisfaction during a national television appearance, raising concerns about the potential negative impact on President Bola Tinubu’s future political aspirations. He also asserted that the President was being influenced by individuals he referred to as the “Lagos Boys.”
Expanding on the matter, the senator from Borno South stated on Thursday that certain elements had resorted to using sections of the media to launch personal attacks against him and question the qualifications of his daughter, who is an employee of the CBN. Ndume clarified that, as a legislator, he had no control over the employment choices of his adult children, as long as they possessed the necessary qualifications to work in any government agency.
Undeterred by this subtle blackmail, Ndume emphasized that he would persist in pointing out shortcomings within the government, as it was his way of assisting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in achieving success. He firmly stated, “I stand by my previous statements regarding the relocation of FAAN and certain CBN departments to Lagos State. If the objective is to decongest, Lagos is not the appropriate location. The CBN has offices in all states of the federation. Why move the departments to an already densely populated area like Lagos?”
Reflecting on the attacks he has faced, Ndume refuted claims that he harbored animosity towards the Yoruba people. He pointed out that two of his daughters were married to Yoruba men, one from Lagos State and the other from Kwara State. Furthermore, he highlighted that he had five Yoruba grandchildren, firmly emphasizing his commitment to national unity. Ndume challenged those who questioned his daughter’s employment at the CBN to review her credentials, emphasizing her qualifications and her imminent completion of a PhD.
Rather than focusing on personal attacks, Ndume urged the CBN to prioritize its duties, such as addressing the rising inflation and stabilizing exchange rates. He emphasized that his criticisms were not directed at individuals but aimed at highlighting areas where improvements and corrections were necessary. Ndume reiterated his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing their friendship and the President’s appreciation for honest feedback, while expressing concern about the influence of certain individuals around him who were forming a political cartel.
“I will continue to speak the truth and identify areas in need of correction. It is my duty as a senator, and it is not personal in any way,” Ndume concluded.