Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, Senator Sunday Karimi, has called on his colleague, Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South, to channel his energy towards addressing Nigeria’s security crisis rather than stirring ethnic sentiments over political appointments.
Karimi’s remarks came in response to Ndume’s appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, where he criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for allegedly favouring the Yoruba ethnic group in federal appointments.
In a statement released on Tuesday from Lokoja, Karimi expressed surprise at Ndume’s comments, urging the former Senate Chief Whip to prioritise the fight against insurgency, especially given the security challenges plaguing his own region.
“It is disappointing that a senior legislator like Senator Ndume continues to play to the gallery, ignoring more pressing issues like insecurity that threaten Nigeria’s collective existence,” Karimi stated.
He highlighted the toll Boko Haram insurgency has taken on the nation, revealing that over 50% of Nigeria’s earnings in recent years have been spent on counter-terrorism efforts.
“Rather than criticising the government, Senator Ndume should return to his community and work with local stakeholders to address the Boko Haram problem. Insecurity has a local solution,” Karimi added.
He pointed to his own efforts in Kogi West, where he facilitated the establishment of a military base in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area, and provided logistics to bolster security operations.
Karimi lamented the loss of lives and resources due to insurgency, recalling the recent death of a Nigerian Army captain from his constituency who was killed while serving in Ndume’s senatorial district.
“Trillions of Naira have been spent, and countless young Nigerians have died in the fight to secure our nation. These are the issues that deserve our focus,” he said.
Karimi’s statement adds to the ongoing debate on national priorities, as insecurity continues to weigh heavily on Nigeria’s development and unity.
