Senator Ndume Issues Powerful Warning to President on the Implications of Relocating CBN and FAAN Headquarters to Lagos

Senator Ndume’s Warning to President Tinubu

Senator Ali Ndume issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu regarding the proposed relocation of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters to Lagos. Ndume expressed concern over the influence of what he called the “Lagos Boys” cartel, cautioning that there could be political consequences if the decision is pushed forward.

In an interview on Channels Television, Senator Ndume argued that those advising the president on this matter lack a comprehensive understanding of Nigeria beyond Lagos. He emphasized that if the motive is to address congestion, other states like Nasarawa, Kaduna, or Kogi, in proximity to Abuja, would be more suitable alternatives.

Misguided Decision by the “Lagos Boys” Cartel

Senator Ndume accused the so-called “Lagos Boys” of having a myopic view of Nigeria, asserting that their influence could lead to misguided decisions. He criticized their lack of knowledge about the diverse regions of the country and suggested that they may not be able to rectify political mistakes when repercussions arise.

According to Senator Ndume, the proposed relocation doesn’t align with the geographical, economic, and administrative dynamics of Nigeria. He questioned the wisdom of having crucial financial and regulatory institutions like CBN headquartered in Lagos, emphasizing that such decisions should consider the broader national context.

Nasarawa, Kaduna, or Kogi: Proximity Matters

Highlighting the geographical aspect, Ndume reiterated that if the concern is about congestion, states like Nasarawa, Kaduna, or Kogi would be more suitable due to their proximity to the federal capital, Abuja. He stressed the importance of understanding the country’s diversity and urged a reconsideration of the relocation decision.

The senator argued that a hasty decision to move critical institutions to Lagos could lead to operational challenges and potential political backlash, especially from regions that feel marginalized by the concentration of key offices in one city.

Consensus in the North Against Relocation

Ndume claimed that there is a consensus in the North against the proposed relocation, asserting that Abuja is the sole federal capital. He criticized the idea that Lagos represents the entirety of Nigeria and accused the “Lagos Boys” of providing misleading advice to the president.

Expressing confidence that President Tinubu, whom he described as a nationalist, would reconsider the decision, Ndume highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of the nation’s capital and not succumbing to regional interests.

Nationalist President Expected to Reverse Decision

Senator Ndume expressed optimism that President Tinubu, being a nationalist, would review and reverse the decision. He highlighted the impracticality of having dual capitals and drew parallels with relocating other key sectors based on regional considerations.

While asserting his confidence in the president’s ability to rectify what he termed a poorly thought-out decision, Ndume hinted at potential democratic actions if the reversal doesn’t occur, suggesting that there are mechanisms within the democratic framework to address such concerns.

Democracy’s Response to Unpopular Decisions

In a final assertion, Senator Ndume emphasized the democratic nature of the country and hinted at potential actions if the relocation decision remains unchanged. He suggested that the democratic process offers avenues to address unpopular decisions and expressed readiness to engage in such processes if needed.

Ndume underscored the importance of thoughtful and inclusive decision-making in a democratic setting, implying that the proposed relocation lacks the necessary considerations for the diverse interests and dynamics of the nation.