Ali Ndume, senator representing Borno South, has distanced himself from the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term by 22 governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that such political backing does not guarantee electoral success.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Ndume cautioned Tinubu against relying on endorsements as a measure of public support. He recalled a similar scenario in 2015 when 22 governors of the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) endorsed President Goodluck Jonathan for re-election. Despite the high-profile backing, Jonathan lost decisively to Muhammadu Buhari of the APC.

“I pity Mr President,” Ndume said. “Jonathan had 22 governors backing him, just like now, and yet he lost woefully. Politicians may defect and form alliances, but voters don’t follow those moves blindly.”

Ndume, known for his critical stance on some of Tinubu’s policies, said he was present at the Presidential Villa when the endorsement was made in May but did not support it. He clarified that he had attended for a summit, not a political declaration.

“When I realized it was not a summit but a political endorsement, I quietly left,” he said. “That doesn’t mean I’m no longer in the APC. I’m still a member, but not every member agrees with everything the party does.”

The senator also expressed concern over the country’s worsening economic and social conditions, saying that many Nigerians are losing faith in the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.

“Things are very bad in the country. Nigerians don’t see hope; they are beginning to doubt the promises made,” he stated.

Ndume urged the president and APC leadership to reflect on historical precedents and focus on delivering real solutions to the nation’s pressing challenges rather than political showmanship.