Nigeria’s political establishment was thrown into fresh controversy yesterday, after the Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, alleged that aides and officials within the Presidential Villa demand cash bribes from those seeking access to President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking during a televised interview, the lawmaker representing Borno-South Senatorial District claimed that it has become nearly impossible to meet the president without paying off certain individuals in Aso Rock.
“Those working with Tinubu in Aso Rock usually take bribes before they grant you access to see Mr. President”, Ndume said, lamenting that even he, as a senior member of the National Assembly, struggles to reach the president directly.
Ndume accused the presidency of being overrun by what he described as “kakistocrats” — people unfit to manage public affairs — who have allegedly isolated the president from genuine advisers and loyal allies.
“I don’t have a chance to see the President. The only time I can see him is when he’s going to an event. If you want to see the president, they will ask you how much”, he added.
The senator revealed that he had made formal requests to meet with President Tinubu over critical financial issues but was met with frustrating bureaucratic games by those controlling access to the president.
Ndume’s revelation comes amid mounting diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and the United States, following President Donald Trump’s recent remarks accusing Nigeria’s government of religious persecution and threatening possible U.S. military action.
Analysts say Ndume’s allegations of internal corruption and gatekeeping in the Villa could further undermine confidence in the Tinubu administration at a time of heightened international scrutiny and domestic unease.
The senator urged President Tinubu to take immediate disciplinary action against those responsible, warning that such practices threaten not only transparency but also Nigeria’s credibility on the world stage.
