The leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has kicked against the removal of Senator Ali Ndume as the Chief Whip of the Senate, describing It as a threat to the nation’s growing democracy.
Addressing newsmen in Abuja, the National Chairman of the Party, Shehu Gabam saluted the courageous stand of the Senator against the APC’s authoritarian tendencies and urged them to come over to the Social Democratic Party.
In his speech, Gabam said “The recent removal of Sen. Ali Ndume as Chief Whip of the Senate, coupled with the intolerance displayed by the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC), is a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked power.
“Sen. Ndume’s criticism of the government’s policies and their impact on Nigerians is not only legitimate but also a testament to his commitment to the well-being of our citizens. Yet, instead of engaging with his concerns, the APC leadership chose to silence him through removal and intimidation.
“This is not an isolated incident. We recall the experiences of Sen. Abdul Ningi, who was suspended for raising an issue of alleged padding of the budget, an issue of grave concern that casts aspersions on the integrity of both the Senate and the Presidency.
“Recently, former president of the 9th Senate, Sen. Ahmed Lawan, also raised serious concern and, Sen. Adams Oshiomole suffered similar fates for speaking truth to power. This trend is alarming and undermines the principles of democracy and fair hearing”.
He called on Nigerians to embrace criticism, listen to the concerns of Nigerians, and work towards building a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
