In a stunning turn of events, Senator Ali Ndume has declined his new appointment as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tourism, citing his lack of interest and knowledge about the sector.
This development comes on the heels of his removal as Chief Whip of the 10th National Assembly, a position he held until his recent criticisms of President Bola Tinubu led to his ouster.
“I learnt that I was given the Chairman of Tourism Committee; nobody wrote to me, but I want to state here clearly that I decline this offer for two reasons; I am not a tourist, so I am not interested in accepting the Chairman on Tourism. I am not knowledgeable about Tourism,” Ndume said in a statement.
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Ndume’s decision to reject the new appointment is a testament to his commitment to speaking truth to power and his unwillingness to compromise his values.
“It is unpatriotic to stand by Mr. President with whatever he does, it is patriotic to speak the truth, not only to the President but anybody for that matter. It is unpatriotic not to speak the truth to power or anybody and still stand by that,” he emphasized.
The senator’s bold move has sparked a renewed focus on the importance of accountability and transparency in leadership.
As Ndume so aptly put it, “Leaders in this country need to take a review; they should get back to me to tell me whether I said anything that is not true or is wrong.”
In a nation where the voices of dissent are often muffled, Ndume’s courage to speak out is a beacon of hope for those seeking change.
His unwavering commitment to the truth, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to his leadership and a clarion call to others to follow suit.
As Ndume himself said, “I know I am not wrong; the people are not wrong by speaking the truth and by standing by the truth.
I expect the president, who I believe the report has gotten to him, to look into what I have said and take appropriate measures to alleviate the suffering.”
