The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has extended an invitation to Senator Ali Ndume, the recently removed Majority Chief Whip of the Senate, to join its ranks.
This call was made by the SDP National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, during a news conference held on Thursday in Abuja.
Gabam expressed the party’s condemnation of Ndume’s removal, attributing it to his criticisms of the government’s programmes and policies. He described the removal as an act of intolerance on the part of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The Social Democratic Party is inviting Senator Ali Ndume to join our fold. We view his removal as Chief Whip of the Senate for speaking out against the government as an unjust action,” Gabam stated. 
Ndume, who represents Borno South (APC-Borno), was replaced by Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC-Borno), representing Borno North, on Wednesday.
The decision followed a letter entitled “Complaints Against the Unbecoming Utterances of Sen. Ali Ndume” read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary.
The letter, signed by APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and National Secretary Sen. Ajibola Basiru, cited complaints about Ndume’s remarks.
Gabam defended Ndume’s right to criticize the government, emphasizing that his criticisms were legitimate and reflected his dedication to the well-being of Nigerian citizens.
“Instead of replacing Ndume, the APC and the government should have addressed the genuine issues he raised,” Gabam said.
The SDP chairman further noted that the suggestion from APC leadership that Ndume could join any opposition party was indicative of a lack of tolerance for differing opinions within the ruling party.
He 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 Sen. Ndume to join our party and continue his quest for social justice, good governance, and the entrenchment of democratic principles.
“To Sen. 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.”
Gabam said that Ndume was not just a very ranking senator but one of the most experienced parliamentarians in Nigeria today.
He advised APC and the Presidency to embrace criticism, listen to the concerns of Nigerians and work towards building a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
He said that the removal of Ndume was of grave concern that does not augur well for the Senate and the executive.
He likened it to the suspension of Sen. Abdul Ningi for raising an issue of alleged padding of the budget.
“Recently, 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 said.
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