Senator Ali Ndume, the Senate Chief Whip representing Borno South, made a bold statement regarding his experience in parliamentary matters compared to Senate President Godswill Akpabio. He conveyed these views during his appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics show.
Having served in the Upper Legislative Chamber since 2011, Ndume emphasized that his time in the Senate surpasses Akpabio’s, who was first elected in 2015.
Senator Ndume explained the circumstances that led him to walk out of the Senate after Akpabio ruled him out of order. He mentioned his efforts to draw the Senate President’s attention to the rule book regarding crisis management but noted that Akpabio did not entertain his perspective and ruled him out of order.
In a candid statement, Ndume revealed that he actively campaigned for Akpabio’s election as President of the Senate. He expressed his determination not to stand by while the achievements of that period were disregarded.
He clarified his concerns about the handling of the situation and highlighted the possible misunderstandings in the previous incident. He emphasized his loyalty and support for Akpabio, comparing the Senate to a “house” that shouldn’t be destroyed.
Ndume underscored his claim by asserting his greater experience in parliamentary matters, highlighting that a chief whip should not be overruled in the manner he experienced. He also noted that at the time, he was supposed to be invited for a one-on-one discussion with Akpabio, but instead, the Senate President used his gavel. The incident occurred at 12:30 pm, at which point Ndume had to attend to his prayers.
