In a startling revelation, the Chief Whip of the Senate, Ali Ndume, has accused officials within the Presidential Villa, known as Aso Rock, of demanding financial inducements from individuals seeking an audience with President Bola Tinubu.
Mr Ndume, who represents the Borno South Senatorial District in Borno State, made these claims during an interview broadcast on Arise News Channel on Wednesday. He expressed deep frustration at what he portrayed as a corrupt and exclusionary network surrounding the President, which he believes is hindering effective governance.
According to the senator, direct access to President Tinubu is restricted to a small circle of individuals, compelling others – including senior government figures – to navigate through intermediaries. These aides, he alleged, routinely solicit payments in exchange for facilitating meetings.
“I don’t have access to the President. The only time I see him is when he’s attending an event,” Mr Ndume stated during the interview. “That’s how they run the government. It’s dominated by kakistocrats, people who are the least qualified or most corrupt. If you want to see the President, they’ll ask you how much you’re willing to pay.”
The allegations emerge against a backdrop of mounting concerns regarding a perceived rift between the Presidency and vital stakeholders, such as legislators and regional officials. Mr Ndume highlighted his own repeated efforts to contact the President via formal channels, which he said have been thwarted by administrative hurdles and obstructive aides.
As of the time of going to press, no official response has been forthcoming from the Presidential Villa addressing Mr Ndume’s assertions. The lack of comment has fuelled speculation about internal dynamics within the administration, which has faced scrutiny over transparency and inclusivity since President Tinubu assumed office.
