Senate Chief Whip Ali Ndume criticized President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that Tinubu is out of touch with the severe hunger and anger among Nigerians. Ndume made these remarks to journalists at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, emphasizing that Tinubu is shielded from the truth by being isolated in the Presidential Villa and fed misinformation.
Ndume’s comments were prompted by the Senate’s resolution urging the federal government to tackle food insecurity or face public discontent. He co-sponsored a motion highlighting the urgent need to address food scarcity and market exploitation of consumables in Nigeria, stressing that little has been done recently to alleviate the security challenges affecting food security.
He criticized the isolation of President Tinubu, stating, “Mr. President is not in the picture of what is happening outside the villa. He has been fenced off and caged.” Ndume expressed concern that the government’s response to the food crisis has been inadequate, pointing out the absence of food reserves and widespread unavailability of essential food items.
Ndume urged President Tinubu to engage more openly with Nigerians who can provide accurate assessments of the situation. He lamented the lack of straightforwardness in addressing issues such as herders’ activities, which he believes exacerbate the food scarcity problem.
Overall, Ndume’s statements reflect deep concern over the disconnect between government actions and the reality faced by ordinary Nigerians, particularly regarding food insecurity and related challenges.