Politics
2023: FFK and APC’s tough time to Nirvana

2023: FFK and APC’s tough time to Nirvana
By: James Bwala
The Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has described the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Capo di tutti of the South. Speaking on Arise Television, the Ondo State Governor maintained that the next president of the country must come from the Southern region.
Speaking on his visit to Tinubu in the United Kingdom and the 2023 elections, Akeredolu said his visit has nothing to do with the polls. But he also tries to open the position of the southwest in 2023.
“…We went to visit our National Leader and I was there because there were a lot of rumours here and there. It was important for us to go and see for ourselves. And I was there, I have seen for myself and there is nothing alarming about his health. We are praying that he returns back on time. He’s the capo for us here in the South West and South South. So we are waiting for him to come so that by the time he comes, we can make some important decisions…” The Ondo governor said at the time of his return.
Indeed since Bola Ahmed Tinubu left for either his vacation or medical trip, there seemed to be no activity going on regarding the presidential pursuit in his chambers. It looks like for now, no decision can be taken while Mr. Tinubu was away. Perhaps Tinubu holds the life line of the ruling party and perhaps he was the reason for so many happenings currently ongoing in the APC including the recent defection of the former Aviation minister, Chief Femi Fani Kayode popularly known as FFK. Perhaps he has come to speak for Tinubu knowing his pedigree in the act of rolling people’s programmes and I admire him for standing tall on this.

Some said the journey APC is embarking on to 2023 was an unfortunate one and dust was raised owing to the coming of a man with short Fuse. However, it appears that his bank rollers are stronger than the opposing forces from within. He came from the southwest and APC must do the bidding of the Southwest but of course, they are waiting for the return of the JAGABAN for any decisions that will need to be taken. And of course! He is back.
However, there has been murmuring among politicians especially in the north who still want to hold to power beyond the arrangements and seeming understanding in the party’s zoning system for 2023. Those who are yet to know or understand what is going on from the inner caucus of the party have been busy calculating how things are going to unfold. To them things are going to go according to plan but the rumour making the roundabout unfolding event within the party seemed to be opening another chapter and direction.
I always said that APC is a party widely divided between the younger generation and the old wine skin. So many people are not seeing the in-fighting and struggles coming ahead of the 2023 general election or rather those that are seeing it are pretending not to have seen it coming. Known for his onions, the former Aviation minister in his own character is coming to achieve a purpose to either shape the party or part it. I see a strong opposition from within. This was tactically arranged for the interest of some few who feel they are there to decide every move or plan by the party in the unfolding circumstances.
Recently, a chieftain of the APC in Niger State, Comrade Jonathan Vatsa, lambasted President Muhammadu Buhari and the leadership of the party, over the defection by FFK saying it is an embarrassment to the party. While speaking with journalists in Minna, the former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism said the desperation with which those that were called thieves yesterday are being wooed and coerced into the ruling party is not only an embarrassment but a confirmation that “the party is struggling for survival.”
Vatsa, who was the spokesman of the APC in Niger State, said now that those who were branded yesterday as “looters” of the country’s treasury are being given red carpet reception in Aso Rock, has further put to question the anti-corruption stand of the present administration. “Treasury looters are now heroes in APC. Everything is finished. The party has lost direction. I am shocked not because Femi Fani-Kayode defected to the party, but the kind of red carpet reception accorded him in Aso Rock before the chief anti-corruption crusader himself.
“All Nigerians, including Mr. President, know the controversy surrounding the N2 billion Port Harcourt airport runway contract under Femi Fani-Kayode as Minister of Aviation and his involvement in the Dasukigate. It is sad to see those who looted the country with reckless abandon and contributed to the economic problem the country is facing today being received as heroes for defecting to APC, and being received by the president. I have said this before and am saying it again that APC needs to apologize to Nigerians that it has missed it. We failed this country in totality, and the honorable thing to do is to say we are sorry.

“When we are beginning to eat our vomits, it means that the entire system has entered reverse gear. The party has continued to de-market itself before Nigerians through the actions of its leadership every day. I will not be surprised if Kanu and Igboho join the APC and are released from detention with the best of reception accorded them. That is the level of desperation that APC found itself. No matter the level of your corruption, when you join APC, you become a saint. It is sad and very unfortunate.”
While many have applauded the Yobe state governor, Mai Mala Buni for catching a big fish from the opposition PDP; many have also attributed his political move to a grand effort to plunge the party into crises since being pressured by older generation within the party to give away ambition he had nursed over the Chairmanship of the party. Although other party members argue that Governor Mai Mala Buni was actually positioning himself for the Vice President in 2023, they claimed that he wanted to anoint someone he can have absolute control over to handle the affairs of the party for his political ambition.
” APC has won over many strong politicians who hitherto would have been a problem for the party playing on the opposition side. But internally the party is building to destroy owing to several ambitions in the play. Currently there is division between the governor Mai Mala Buni led APC and some elders welding power from within who feel they have the President in their pockets.
“Things appeared to be normal but there are different stories coming from people who knew what was happening from within. The party has been divided between the older politicians and the younger generation with Buni allegedly leading the younger generation. However, there are stronger forces from the older politicians where President Muhammadu Buhari belongs. Although the President appears to be in the middle of the silent war ongoing in the party, everyone knows his team members. And I can tell you that FFK has a role to play.” A Chieftain of the party in Lagos, who preferred not to be mentioned, told NEWSng during a chat.
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Already there are governors who see the coming of FFK into the party as an insult. Those that have personal scores to settle with him are going to use the occasion to also fight whatever ambition he came to fulfil. Already Governor Umahi who also joins the APC in the buildup is demanding apology from the former Aviation minister who according to the governor lied over the role he (FFK) claimed to have played in the governor’s defection to the ruling party.
Some key players in the APC have seen FFK coming to champion the Tinubu course. Already some members of the party are beginning to air their views and the personality they prefer for the Presidency. One of such is the governor of Nasarawa state, Abdullahi Sule, who said their preferred candidate is the current Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo. It also appears most northerners would prefer Osinbajo’s presidency. But recent appearance in the southwest particularly the coming together of traditional rulers from the region has shown the direction the people of the southwest are coming from.
Elima Lazanad, a writer and political analyst in Abuja observed that, many of the governors in APC now are not on the same page with themselves. According to him, since governor Buni took over the leadership of the party not many of them were seen showing open support for his leadership of the party and that gives room for many negative stories coming about the party’s direction ahead of the 2023 general elections.
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“Go back to reports about his activities or get some of the clips if you have some at your fingertips. They are not speaking with one voice and if they are not speaking with one voice then they are divided. “He said.
He also observed that, the powers behind FFK defections are far beyond the imagination of many leading Politicians ranting over his coming to join the party.
According to him, even within a house there are people who have the will to do as they please. “Fani Kayode is such a child of necessity. He was not in APC for those calling for his head neither were he in APC for those who are claiming to have lured him to the party. FFK was here for one man and for a region he must work for to achieve its ambition and he is the beginning of the ‘very important decisions’ in the words of Akeredolu.”
James Bwala writes from Abuja
2023: FFK and APC’s tough time to Nirvana
Politics
VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes

VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s political trajectory exemplifies the intricate relationship between fate and personal attributes, highlighting how individual qualities can intersect with circumstantial forces to shape leadership outcomes. While fate may position an individual within certain historical or social contexts, it is Shettima’s personal attributes—such as resilience, rhetorical skill, and strategic vision—that have enabled him to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape effectively. His public discourse often underscores courage and transformative leadership, which not only reflect his innate qualities but also respond adaptively to the demands of his environment.
Shettima’s role as vice president underlines a dynamic interplay where destiny provides opportunities that are actualized through character and action. His rhetoric aligns with broader national narratives about change and legacy, suggesting that while fate may offer a stage, it is personal agency that directs the performance. This synthesis between predetermined circumstances and individual capability illustrates how leaders like Shettima embody both historical contingency and self-determination in their public roles.
In this way, Shettima’s journey not only reflects personal triumph over the vicissitudes of fate but also serves as a testament to the profound impact of character-driven leadership on national development. In essence, Shettima’s leadership journey illustrates how the interplay between fate and personal attributes can transcend individual success to foster collective progress within a nation. This intricate balance between destiny and personal attributes not only shapes Shettima’s political narrative but also inspires a broader discourse on leadership in Africa, where history and individual agency frequently converge to redefine societal trajectories.
This narrative not only resonates deeply within the context of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape but also offers a blueprint for emerging leaders across the continent, reinforcing the idea that true progress is born from the synergy between predetermined paths and deliberate, character-driven choices. By examining Shettima’s career, one can discern how his personal attributes—resilience, strategic foresight, and an unwavering commitment to public service—have consistently aligned with historical moments of opportunity.
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This alignment is further evidenced by Shettima’s strategic initiatives, which often capitalize on pivotal historical junctures to advance national interests and enhance socio-economic stability. Shettima’s ability to navigate complex political landscapes with a blend of prudence and vision underscores the essential role of adaptive leadership in times of national transformation. His journey illustrates how personal characteristics can serve as both a catalyst and a compass, guiding individuals through the intricate dance of destiny and determination to achieve impactful leadership outcomes.
As Shettima’s narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that his personal journey is a testament to how intrinsic qualities can steer one towards pivotal roles in shaping a nation’s trajectory. In reflecting on Shettima’s career, one observes how his intrinsic resilience and strategic foresight have intertwined with the broader currents of fate to place him at the forefront of national leadership. This interplay between personal attributes and destiny not only underscores Shettima’s rise but also highlights the broader narrative of leadership in contexts marked by complexity and change.
This dynamic interaction between individual traits and the unfolding of fate is not only critical in understanding Shettima’s ascent but also serves as a broader commentary on leadership within complex political environments. Shettima’s leadership journey, as articulated in his rhetoric, underscores the transformative power of individual courage and strategic vision in navigating the complexities of national governance. Moreover, his rhetoric often reflects the deep-seated belief that courage and strategic vision are indispensable in crafting a legacy that resonates with both contemporary and future generations.
Kashim Shettima’s speeches often encapsulate the notion that leadership is not merely a position of power but a profound responsibility to align personal strengths with the nation’s aspirations, ultimately crafting a narrative that resonates with both the present and posterity. Through his speeches, Shettima consistently emphasizes the importance of aligning personal integrity with national goals, thereby reinforcing the notion that effective leadership is deeply rooted in a harmonious blend of fate and personal conviction. In doing so, he not only embodies the essence of leadership but also illustrates how personal conviction can be a guiding force in the intricate dance between destiny and self-determination. This intricate interplay between personal determination and the larger forces of destiny is vividly captured in Shettima’s portrayal of President Tinubu’s leadership, where bold economic reforms are seen as pivotal moments that redefine national identity.
Shettima’s depiction of Tinubu’s leadership serves as a testament to the belief that the convergence of personal attributes and fate can indeed propel a nation towards a redefined future, where courageous decisions become the cornerstone of historical transformation. Shettima’s perspective underscores the belief that the fusion of personal attributes such as courage and strategic foresight with the inexorable pull of fate can lead to transformative change. By weaving his narrative with elements of courage and strategic foresight, Shettima not only highlights the transformative potential inherent in the convergence of personal attributes and fate but also inspires a collective vision for progress that transcends individual ambitions.
Indeed, Shettima’s narrative finds resonance in the broader context of leadership, where the alignment of individual virtues with the nation’s destiny becomes a catalyst for enduring change. In essence, Shettima’s articulation of Tinubu’s leadership is not merely a reflection of personal admiration but rather an acknowledgment of the profound impact that decisive leadership can have on the trajectory of a nation.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes
Politics
Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership

Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s rhetoric surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s leadership underscores a narrative of courage and historical significance. Shettima consistently portrays Tinubu as a bold and decisive leader who confronts Nigeria’s most pressing challenges head-on, particularly in economic reforms like the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate realignment. He constantly emphasized that Tinubu is “taking the bullets” avoided by his predecessors; Shettima situates the president as a transformative figure whose decisions are not merely administrative but foundational acts shaping Nigeria’s future governance.
Shettima’s discourse highlights the interplay between courage and legacy. He suggests that Tinubu’s willingness to make unpopular yet necessary choices reflects a leadership style committed to long-term national benefit rather than short-term approval. This framing aligns with academic understandings of political rhetoric that seek to legitimize authority through appeals to sacrifice and historical destiny. In this light, Shettima positions Tinubu not only as a current leader but as an architect of history whose actions will ease burdens for future administrations.

Vice President Kashim Shettima often employs rhetoric that celebrates President Tinubu’s courage while emphasizing his role in shaping Nigerian history. By framing difficult policy decisions as acts of bravery and rewriting past leadership failures, Shettima constructs a compelling narrative that elevates Tinubu’s presidency within the nation’s political discourse. This rhetorical strategy serves both to defend contentious reforms and inspire confidence in ongoing governmental efforts toward sustainable development. Such rhetoric not only bolsters Tinubu’s image as a valiant leader but also sets the stage for a narrative where current sacrifices are deemed necessary investments for the nation’s prosperous future.
This narrative not only fortifies Tinubu’s legacy but also seeks to galvanize public support for current and future reforms by framing them as essential steps toward a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria. By portraying Tinubu as a leader who tackles challenges head-on, Shettima not only seeks to enhance public trust but also attempts to foster a collective sense of purpose and resilience among Nigerians.

Framing Tinubu’s leadership as a courageous endeavor that confronts and overcomes obstacles head-on, Shettima not only reinforces a narrative of resilience but also positions Nigeria on a trajectory toward transformative growth and stability. This portrayal of Tinubu as a transformative figure is further reinforced by Shettima’s framing of his leadership decisions as not merely necessary responses to immediate crises but as strategic moves designed to secure Nigeria’s long-term prosperity and stability. Drawing on the historical context and illustrating Tinubu’s actions as pivotal moments of courage, Shettima underscores the idea that these strategic choices are not just about immediate gains but about crafting a legacy that future generations will look back on with respect and gratitude.
In this light, Shettima’s rhetoric not only elevates Tinubu’s actions as emblematic of courageous leadership but also aims to cement his legacy as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s history. While emphasizing these transformative policies, Shettima not only paints a picture of Tinubu’s bravery in addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues but also frames these actions as essential steps in the nation’s journey towards sustainable development. His rhetoric consistently underscores the notion that Tinubu’s leadership is not only about immediate gains but also about ensuring a more resilient and prosperous future for Nigeria.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s rhetoric underscores this vision, portraying President Tinubu as a leader who is unafraid to confront the nation’s most pressing challenges head-on, thereby setting a precedent for future governance. By highlighting Tinubu’s willingness to make the difficult decisions that previous administrations had sidestepped, Shettima positions him as a trailblazer in Nigerian politics, not just as a leader of his time but as a transformative figure whose decisions echo through the annals of history. His speeches, often delivered with a fervor that matches the gravity of the challenges at hand, serve to rally both the government and citizens around a shared vision of progress and resilience. His words resonate with a sense of urgency and responsibility, suggesting that the bold initiatives undertaken by Tinubu are not merely political maneuvers but foundational shifts designed to safeguard the nation’s future.

His rhetoric, therefore, not only celebrates Tinubu’s decisive actions but also frames them as pivotal moments in Nigeria’s political narrative, reinforcing the idea that true leadership is defined by the courage to act when others hesitate. Such rhetoric not only aims to inspire confidence in current governmental strategies but also to cultivate a legacy of courageous leadership that future generations can emulate. His articulation of these themes is bolstered by the tangible outcomes of Tinubu’s policies, which have already begun to reshape the economic landscape, demonstrating the real-world impact of courageous governance.
As Shettima eloquently underscores, Tinubu’s leadership is not just about immediate gains but about laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future. In this context, Shettima’s rhetoric serves as both a testament to and a catalyst for the transformative impact of Tinubu’s leadership, illustrating how bold decisions today can redefine tomorrow’s possibilities. His consistent emphasis on the necessity of these decisions, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and the stabilization of the forex market, underscores a commitment to long-term national interests over short-term political gains.
Indeed, confronting these entrenched challenges head-on, Shettima argues, Tinubu is not only rewriting history but also providing a blueprint for future governance that prioritizes resilience and adaptability. His rhetoric, therefore, not only celebrates the present administration’s accomplishments but also serves as a clarion call for future leaders to embrace similarly bold and forward-thinking approaches.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership
National News
Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder

Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a decision he will never regret.
Speaking on Saturday in Uyo during a grand reception held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Shettima said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally sent a message to the governor, assuring him that the APC would be home to him and his supporters.

“This party is your home. You will not be humiliated. You will not be forsaken,” Shettima declared. “Mr. President asked me to assure you personally—no one will question your place here.”
Describing Tinubu as a “bridge-builder” and “deep-rooted democrat,” the Vice President praised the president’s enduring commitment to democratic values, recalling how he stood firm during challenging political periods in Nigeria’s history.
“Few figures in our national history have given as much and demanded so little in return,” Shettima said, referencing Tinubu’s past political sacrifices.

The Vice President noted that the APC is not a party driven by media hype but by vision, merit, and loyalty. “We are not just a political platform; we are a movement,” he added.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno said he joined the APC to align with the Tinubu-led administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and fast-track the realization of key infrastructural projects, including the long-delayed Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom.
“My progressive state movement is predicated on enlightened state interest—to support Mr. President’s bold and audacious reforms,” the governor said.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, welcomed the governor and his supporters, hailing the massive turnout as a demonstration of public trust in the APC.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the significance of the governor’s defection, describing it not as just a political move but as a full-fledged “movement.” He assured Akwa Ibom citizens of the federal government’s support for development projects in the state.

Other notable speakers included Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, who commended Governor Eno’s decision, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, who declared the South-South zone’s full alignment with the federal government.
The event climaxed with the presentation of the APC flag and broom to Governor Eno, symbolizing his official welcome into the party and reaffirming the APC’s stance as a vehicle of national progress.
Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder
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