Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to live up to the expectations of Nigerians and safeguard his administration from what he termed “cryptocorruptants”—individuals allegedly operating like cabals and undermining the government from within.
Ndume issued the warning while speaking at the 6th Zik’s Annual Award Lecture in Abuja, held to commemorate the 121st posthumous birthday of Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. The event focused on the theme, “The Power of Pan-African Unity: Strengthening Nigeria’s Role in African Integration and Development.”
Acknowledging President Tinubu’s leadership abilities, Ndume expressed concern over the influence of certain powerful actors in government.
“Tell President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that this country is looking up to him because he is a leader with proven leadership qualities. But the government, as it stands today, is crowded by what I call cryptocorruptants — people around the President who act like cabals and weaken the system,” Ndume said.
He also raised issues affecting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), cautioning against exclusionary politics. The senator questioned why the party would discourage politicians seeking refuge after internal crises in their former parties.
“I don’t know any leader of the APC — from the President down — who will persuade others to join the party, yet close the door on someone whose own party pushed him out because of internal crisis. Will you shut the door or will you open it?” he asked.
Ndume further reflected on his personal ordeal after being accused of sponsoring Boko Haram — allegations he reiterated were politically motivated.
“When I raised concerns about Boko Haram, they turned around and said I was the sponsor. It took me six painful years before the courts finally cleared my name,” he said.
The Zik Annual Lecture, established in honour of Dr. Azikiwe, continues to provide a national platform for introspection, dialogue, and calls for accountability, in keeping with the late nationalist’s legacy of unity and intellectual leadership.
