SDP woos former Senate chief whip, Ndume

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Thursday invited the former Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, to its fold.

The SDP National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, extended the invitation at a news conference in Abuja.

The Senate on Wednesday removed the outspoken lawmaker as Chief Whip following the recommendation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC).

He had since been replaced by the Senator representing Borno North, Mohammed Monguno, in that position.

Ndume was removed a few days after he criticised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style.

The lawmaker, who featured in a programme on Arise TV, said the president has been caged by his aides in Aso Rock.

He added that Tinubu was not aware of the challenges faced by Nigerians because he was far removed from the current realities in the country.

READ ALSO: APC drops Ndume as Senate Chief Whip for anti-Tinubu comments, Tahir Monguno takes over

At the briefing, Gabam condemned the removal of Ndume for criticising the government and its policies.

He said the advice by the APC leadership that Ndume was free to join any opposition party was an act of intolerance.

The chairman said: “The SDP believes that criticism is essential to a healthy democracy, and we will not stand idly by while the APC seeks to stifle dissenting voices.

“We extend an official invitation to Senator Ndume to join our party and continue his quest for social justice, good governance, and the entrenchment of democratic principles.

“To Senator Ndume, we say your courageous stand against the APC’s authoritarian tendencies is laudable, and we welcome you to our fold.

“Together, we shall continue to advocate for the rights of Nigerians and ensure that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive.”

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