The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has invited Ali Ndume, recently removed as Senate Majority Chief Whip, to join their party.
At a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, SDP’s national chairman, Shehu Gabam, criticized Ndume’s removal, attributing it to his criticism of the government’s policies and programs.
Gabam described the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership’s suggestion that Ndume join an opposition party as an act of intolerance.
Ndume, who represents Borno South, was replaced by Senator Mohammed Monguno of Borno North as Senate Majority Whip on Wednesday. This change followed a letter titled “Complaints Against the Unbecoming Utterances of Sen. Ali Ndume,” read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session. The letter was signed by APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and national secretary Ajibola Basiru.
Gabam commended Ndume for his criticisms of the government, calling them legitimate and a testament to his dedication to Nigerians’ welfare. He argued that instead of removing Ndume, the APC and the government should have addressed the substantive issues he raised.
“The SDP believes that criticism is essential to a healthy democracy, and we will not stand idly by while the APC seeks to stifle dissenting voices.
“We extend an official invitation to Senator Ndume to join our party and continue his quest for social justice, good governance, and the entrenchment of democratic principles.
“To Senator Ndume, we say: your courageous stand against the APC’s authoritarian tendencies is laudable, and we welcome you to our fold.
“Together, we shall continue to advocate for the rights of Nigerians and ensure that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive,’’ he said.
Gabam said Ndume was not just a very ranking senator but one of the most experienced parliamentarians in Nigeria today.
He advised APC and the presidency to embrace criticism, listen to the concerns of Nigerians, and work towards building a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
Gabam said the removal of Ndume was of grave concern that does not augur well for the Senate and the executive. He likened it to Senator Abdul Ningi’s suspension for raising an issue of alleged padding of the budget.
“Recently, the president of the ninth Senate, Senator Ahmed Lawan, also raised serious concern, and Senator Adams Oshiomole suffered similar fates for speaking truth to power.
“This trend is alarming and undermines the principles of democracy and fair hearing,” he said.
He advised the ruling party to listen to the voices of Nigerians, saying, “Building a democracy is not an individual affair, but a collective responsibility.’’
Gabam also hailed the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming the financial autonomy of the local government in the country, describing it as a victory for democracy.
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