By Omotosho Victor Fiyinfoluwa (SIWES student, Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti)
The Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, rebuts Senator Sunday Karimi, emphasizing the duty of patriotism in informing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu about national affairs.
Ndume’s stance gains traction, notably among Northerners, despite initial disapproval from figures like former presidential spokesman Dr. Doyin Okupe.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) sparked controversy by announcing plans to relocate key departments to Lagos.
Criticism ensued from various quarters, including the Arewa Consultative Forum and the Northern Senators Forum.
Ndume, representing Borno South, asserts that President Tinubu is misled by Lagos boys within the administration, emphasizing the need for truthful counsel.
While Okupe commends Ndume’s loyalty to the party and the President, Ndume clarifies that his statements reflect his personal stance aligned with the majority of Northerners and concerned Nigerians.
Quoting a former US President, Ndume underscores the essence of patriotism, emphasizing the obligation to uphold truth regardless of one’s position.
He echoes Theodore Roosevelt’s sentiment that blind allegiance to authority is not only unpatriotic but morally reprehensible.
