‘Any Govt That Cannot Be Criticized Is A Liability’ – Arewa Youths Defend Ndume’s Criticism Of Tinubu

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) on Monday condemned the recent statements made by the Coalition of North-East Elders Forum (CNEF) against Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, following his critical comments on President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Naija News reports that Ali Ndume, representing Borno South in the Senate, had voiced concerns that President Bola Tinubu was out of touch with the realities outside the Presidential Villa, suggesting that the President had been isolated and controlled by certain influences.

In response, the CNEF had criticized Senator Ndume’s consistent critiques of Tinubu’s government, cautioning him to cease his attacks or risk losing the 2027 election.

Reacting, the AYCF accused the CNEF of trying to suppress dissent and stifle freedom of speech.

AYCF National President, Yerima Shettima, emphasized that although Ndume’s comments reflect his personal views, he has the right to express them, a right that must be respected.

In a statement signed by Shettima, he stated: “The attack from CNEF against Senator Ndume is vindictive, unwarranted, and an unacceptable affront to democratic principles of freedom and fair play. It is a brutal encroachment on his right to freedom of expression, safeguarded by various international treaties and conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.”

The AYCF also expressed concerns about speculations that Ndume might be removed from his position as Chief Whip of the Senate.

The group warned against any further attempts to infringe on Ndume’s right to hold and express differing views, vowing to resist such moves.

Shettima stated, “Any government that cannot be criticized is a liability,” and urged the North-East elders to stop their “indiscriminate attacks on Senator Ndume,” whom they described as an “eminent hero of the Northern youth.”

While the AYCF clarified that it does not currently support protests, it acknowledged that Ndume’s observations about the current hardships faced by Nigerians are both accurate and timely.

The group urged the government to take the senator’s concerns seriously for the benefit of all citizens and cautioned North-East elders against politicizing and exploiting security issues for personal gain.

“The observations raised by Senator Ndume should be heeded by the government, as they reflect the collective concerns of many Nigerians facing hardships,” the statement added.

The AYCF reiterated its commitment to upholding democratic values and the right to freedom of expression, calling on all stakeholders to adopt a more tolerant and constructive approach to differing viewpoints.