Jonathan had 22 govs and still lost, Ndume warns Tinubu
Former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Ali Ndume, expressed concerns on Sunday that President Bola Tinubu may face a significant setback in the upcoming elections if he does not heed the lessons from former President Goodluck Jonathan’s defeat in 2015.
Ndume shared this warning while appearing as a guest on the Sunday edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today.
In that year, Jonathan, representing the Peoples Democratic Party, lost to All Progressives Congress candidate Muhammadu Buhari in the presidential election.
Buhari received 15,424,921 votes to surpass Jonathan, who secured 12,853,162 votes.
“Tinubu could face a fate similar to what happened to Jonathan, who also had the endorsement of 22 governors, as is the case now. And what occurred? Jonathan suffered a significant loss,” Ndume stated.
Ndume emphasized that history could repeat itself if Tinubu neglects to tackle what he referred to as “crippling economic hardship” and the increasing public discontent.
According to the Borno South lawmaker, the widespread endorsements and apparent public backing for the APC could create a misleading sense of security that might collapse during the elections, much like in Jonathan’s situation.
“We are failing to learn our lessons.
“I feel sorry for Mr. President. Despite his claim that now is not the time for campaigns, just look around—the campaigning has already begun, disguised as endorsements,” he added.
The senator warned against hubris, especially given recent reports of some APC leaders advocating for automatic tickets for sitting lawmakers.
He cautioned that such approaches could alienate the grassroots supporters and foot soldiers of the party, who are essential for any electoral success.
“When rumors surfaced that National Assembly members might receive automatic tickets, the party denied it.
“So, who will be the grassroots supporters? You cannot solely depend on governors,” he said.
Ndume also urged the president to take urgent action and implement policies that prioritize the people's needs and enhance their quality of life.
“There is still an opportunity to make a positive change.
“The hardships we’re discussing have emerged in just two years. If in the next two years, the president can genuinely make Nigerians happy—truly happy—then no one will challenge him,” he remarked.
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