Ndume to Tinubu: Prioritise security, ignore decamping politicians

2026-03-19 - 19:54

By Juliet Umeh Senator Ali Ndume has cautioned President Bola Tinubu not to be distracted by politicians decamping from one party to another, stressing that the priority must remain ensuring the security and welfare of Nigerians. Speaking on Channels TV, Ndume, representing Borno State in the National Assembly, said: “I have told the President that he should not be carried away by this bunch of people who are decamping. The electorates are not decamping; they are staying. “The government should focus on securing the country and improving citizens’ welfare, rather than worrying about political manoeuvring ahead of 2027.” Ndume highlighted the ongoing challenges in the fight against insurgency, pointing out critical gaps in military preparedness. “The insurgents engage in hit-and-run attacks. Our soldiers are exposed; they lack proper surveillance, night vision equipment, and armoured vehicles. “Task force battalions are deployed without the required support, and the military does not have standby helicopters in strategic areas. These deficiencies compromise our ability to protect Nigerians,” he said. The senator commended the President’s commitment to security but emphasised that success requires full support from all government quarters. “The President alone cannot tackle this. He needs to create a situation room, get briefings every morning and evening, and ensure that his team is fully engaged and serious about the security of Nigerians,” Ndume added. Ndume also supported the Chief of Defence Staff’s call for local communities to take ownership of security. He said: “Most insurgents in my local government come from the community itself. If communities are equipped and empowered to protect themselves, attacks will drastically reduce. This is not the government’s job alone.” On the performance of the ruling party, Ndume acknowledged shortcomings while urging a focus on action rather than political blame. “The problem is leadership and execution. Soldiers must be properly equipped, and promises must be translated into real protection. Bullets do not know political parties, they take lives indiscriminately,” he noted. Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Ndume stressed that Nigerians’ confidence in government will hinge on tangible improvements in security and welfare. “If the President walks the talk, delivers security, power, and improved living standards, then opposition campaigns will have little impact. Government performance must speak for itself,” he said. He stated: “This is about saving lives and securing livelihoods. Politicians will come and go, but Nigerians deserve peace, protection, and progress.”