I n a significant development within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ali Ndume's recent apology to the party has led to discussions about his potential reinstatement as Senate Chief Whip. The apology, tendered after a two-hour closed-door meeting with the National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja, has been described by APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, as a "family affair."
The meeting, held last Tuesday, saw a sober-looking Ndume publicly acknowledging his misstep and expressing regret for his actions. "We are writing to the National Assembly to convey what has transpired between Senator Ndume and the party. As you are aware, he has apologised to the party with the hope that they can review their position," Ganduje confirmed.
"The APC is a law-abiding party that is willing to welcome back prodigal and erring members once they are willing to retrace their steps and abide by the party’s Constitution," said Nze Chidi Duru, Deputy National Organising Secretary of the APC.
Three days after the meeting, sources within the party revealed that discussions had been opened with the leadership of the Senate to reconsider Ndume's removal. A party insider, who requested anonymity, stated, "The APC has begun consultation with the Senate leadership. As the National Chairman rightly said, it is a family issue."
Nze Chidi Duru also confirmed the ongoing consultations, emphasizing that while the process may not be conducted publicly, it is ultimately up to the Senate leadership to determine if reinstating Ndume is the right course of action. "It is for us to recommend to the Senate to do the needful. I believe they are all party members who respect the APC," Duru remarked.
Duru further explained that the APC's decision to initially take action against Ndume was based on his public statements without first consulting the party. However, he noted that Ndume's subsequent realization of his error and his willingness to make amends have paved the way for reconciliation. "The party looked at it and then had a handshake with him. It is important that having had that handshake, in the wisdom of the National Chairman, communication is made to the leadership of the Senate just as we did in the first instance," Duru added.
The National Publicity Director of the APC, Bala Ibrahim, supported the possibility of Ndume's reinstatement, noting that portfolio reshuffles are a normal part of both the executive and legislative branches. "This is an in-house thing. Even in the executive arm of the government, a cabinet reshuffle is normal. The legislature can also reshuffle and reassign portfolios," Ibrahim said. He emphasized that Ndume's seniority and experience make him a viable candidate for reinstatement, should the Senate leadership decide to do so.
Ibrahim concluded by stating that the APC is committed to resolving internal conflicts amicably and that any decision regarding Ndume's reinstatement will be made through necessary consultations to ensure a smooth transition. "It is a problem within the family that can always be resolved without necessarily going for an intermediary," he noted.
As the APC continues its internal consultations, the political landscape within the Senate remains dynamic, with the possibility of Ndume's return to the position of Chief Whip now on the horizon.
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