Politics
2023: FFK and APC’s tough time to Nirvana
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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.
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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.
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“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
2027: Vice President Kashim Shettima will rewrite Nigeria’s political campaign history again.
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2027: Vice President Kashim Shettima will rewrite Nigeria’s political campaign history again.
By: Dr. James Bwala
The rise of Vice President Kashim Shettima as a transformative political figure in Nigeria’s electoral scene marks a dramatic shift in national campaign dynamics. His strategic approach to political participation reveals a deep awareness of Nigeria’s complicated sociopolitical landscape, which could reshape standard campaign strategies come 2027.
Kashim Shettima’s national and international engagements with those who are closely monitoring the unveiling of political groundbreaking can attest to the fact that, for every move the Vice President makes in the service of Nigeria under the renewed hope presidency, a man to watch for in the unfolding events of Nigeria’s 2027 campaigns and elections. Shettima’s political career reveals an exceptional ability to cross regional, ethnic, and ideological lines. His approach goes beyond traditional political narratives, providing a complete perspective that solves complex national concerns. By emphasizing collaborative governance and progressive policy frameworks, he departs from previous campaign rhetoric, which frequently promoted contentious techniques above genuine national growth.
The implications of Shettima’s potential campaign are profound. His strategic positioning suggests an innovative political methodology that could fundamentally reconstruct Nigeria’s electoral discourse. By prioritizing substantive policy discussions over inflammatory rhetoric, he represents a potential turning point in the nation’s political communication strategy, potentially establishing a new benchmark for future political engagement and national discourse.
Kashim Shettima’s expected 2027 campaign trajectory will be more than just an electoral tactic; it will mark a potential paradigm shift in Nigerian political communication and governing philosophy. This transition towards a more inclusive and issue-focused campaign could serve as a stimulus for other political personalities to adopt similar techniques. His transparent and accountable leadership style has the potential to encourage a new generation of Nigerian politicians to prioritize the country’s communal well-being before partisan interests.
By fostering a political environment where dialogue and cooperation are prioritized, Shettima’s campaign could potentially set the stage for a more stable and unified Nigeria. Such a transformation would not only redefine the political landscape but also resonate with citizens across diverse spectrums. His forward-thinking approach, which aligns with the principles outlined in the APC’s action plan for renewed hope, could potentially address longstanding national issues through innovative solutions. By utilizing strategies that emphasize inclusivity and innovation, Shettima’s campaign could potentially harness the diverse strengths of Nigeria’s population, addressing key challenges in areas such as national security and economic development. By integrating the principles outlined in the APC’s action plan for renewed hope, Shettima could pioneer a campaign that effectively addresses national security and economic challenges through collaborative and forward-looking policies. By cultivating a platform that prioritizes transparency and accountability, Shettima’s campaign has the potential to redefine political engagement in Nigeria.
His inclusive and forward-thinking approach could serve as a roadmap for future campaigns aimed at bridging gaps and fostering national unity. This method has the potential to spark a new age of political campaigns that prioritize all Nigerians’ interests and voices, instilling a sense of common ownership and participation in the country’s democratic process. Shettima may use his experience and understanding of Nigeria’s complicated sociopolitical milieu to develop techniques that not only resonate with voters but also set new norms for campaign conduct and communication.
By utilizing data analytics and social media platforms, Shettima’s campaign could pave the way for innovative campaign methods that use technology and grassroots mobilization to engage with citizens on an unprecedented scale. This approach could not only energize the youth and marginalized communities but also foster a sense of inclusivity and shared purpose across Nigeria’s diverse population.
Shettima’s campaign could also build trust among the electorate, addressing long-standing issues of political skepticism and apathy. This innovative strategy could redefine the traditional dynamics of political engagement in Nigeria, making campaigns more interactive and impactful than ever before. By integrating real-time feedback mechanisms, the campaign could adapt swiftly to public opinion and concerns, ensuring that its message remains relevant and responsive to the needs of all Nigerians.
The potential for such a transformative campaign strategy aligns with the broader vision outlined in the APC’s action plan. With the APC’s emphasis on progressive good governance and innovative solutions, Shettima’s campaign could serve as a model for how political campaigns are conducted in the digital age. This forward-thinking approach and utilizing cutting-edge technologies, Shettima’s campaign could serve as a beacon for how political movements can evolve to meet the demands of modern society.
By demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and innovation, Shettima’s campaign stands to not only win votes but also inspire a new generation of political leaders in Nigeria. By leveraging these strategies, Shettima has the potential to galvanize widespread support and set a precedent for future political campaigns in Nigeria. By fostering strategic alliances with grassroots organizations and leveraging the power of social media, Shettima’s campaign could further amplify its reach and impact across diverse demographics.
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Shettima’s campaign prioritizes transparency and open dialogue, fostering trust and unity among the electorate, leading to a more cohesive and engaged democratic process. By incorporating data-driven insights and leveraging artificial intelligence to tailor campaign messages, Shettima’s approach could redefine voter engagement methodologies in Nigeria, setting a new standard for political communication.
Shettima’s campaign, by deliberately targeting major policy issues like national security, the economy, and infrastructure development, has the potential to powerfully resonate with the electorate’s need for new hope and progress. Shettima’s ability to articulate a vision that addresses both urgent needs and long-term aspirations may catch the imagination of people seeking meaningful change and sustainable development. Shettima’s campaign, which demonstrates a commitment to inclusive governance and addresses Nigeria’s multifarious difficulties, has the potential to inspire a new age of political participation and innovation in the country’s democratic landscape.
These innovative strategies demonstrate a steadfast commitment to progressive good governance. Shettima’s campaign has the potential to not only reshape political discourse but also to set a precedent for future campaigns in Nigeria. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, Shettima’s campaign could also build trust among voters, which is crucial for sustaining democratic institutions and promoting civic engagement.
Shettima might effectively mobilize support across diverse groups by focusing on grassroots participation and using digital platforms to reach a larger audience. Shettima’s campaign could fine-tune its outreach techniques by leveraging the power of emerging technologies and social media analytics, ensuring that the message of renewed hope reaches every part of the country. His approach has the potential to create a new standard for engaging with the voters, emphasizing both the importance of policy and the necessity for a genuine relationship between leaders and individuals.
Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
2027: Vice President Kashim Shettima will rewrite Nigeria’s political campaign history again.
News
PDP Chieftain urges Nigerians to vote for Atiku in 2027
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PDP Chieftain urges Nigerians to vote for Atiku in 2027
By: Yahaya Wakili
A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Yobe State, and also a strong supporter of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Wazirin Adamawa, Malam Usman Mohammed Dan Takunne, has urged Nigerians, both Muslims and Christians, to come out en masse to vote for Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 general elections.
Malam Usman Mohammed Dan Takunne is from the Jakusko local government area of Yobe state. In 2023, he trucked from Yobe state to Yola, Adamawa state, barefoot to express his happiness because of the victory of Wazirin Adamawa in the primary election.
“Voting for Atiku Abubakar Wazirin Adamawa as the President of Nigeria is only the solution to the problems that are dividing the country now, and Nigerians are facing the consequences under the APC administration. They’re crippling the country’s economy, he said.
According to Dan Takunne, APC has failed Nigerians, and if Atiku Abubakar becomes the president everybody in Nigeria will enjoy, you will not hear the cases of suffering, hunger, poverty, insecurity, kidnapping, banditry, and other cases of criminality in the country.
“PDP rules this country for 16 years, and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar was the vice president for a good 8 years. Everybody enjoyed this country, both the PDP, APC, and even the other parties, religious leaders, and masses; everybody enjoyed the dividend of democracy, and there is no discrimination in PDP administration, Dan Takunne said.
Dan Takunne maintained that, now that the APC has scattered the country’s economy, life has become worse; therefore, there is a need to continue praying now in this country. Nigerians are in danger; let us sit down and rethink very well and vote for Atiku Abubakar Wazirin Adamawa as a president in 2027 to rescue this country from collapse.
“I am sure the minds of Nigerians have turned now on Atiku Abubakar; everybody has abandoned that man and his party, and everybody is praying for Wazirin Adamawa to come in 2027, and we are praying no doubt he will win, Insha Allah, by the grace of God.” He added.
If Wazirin Adamawa becomes the president in 2027, within six months everything will be normal in this country; our economy will improve drastically, and the issues of insecurity, hardship, poverty, criminal activities, and other suffering of people will become a history in the country.
PDP Chieftain urges Nigerians to vote for Atiku in 2027
Politics
Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch
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Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch
By: Dr. James Bwala
The recent conversation between Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima and UK politician Kemi Badenoch highlights the complexity of national identification and the responsibilities associated with heritage. Shettima’s condemnation of Badenoch’s harsh remarks about Nigeria emphasizes an important facet of leadership: the necessity to cultivate pride in one’s origins, particularly among public personalities. His bold proposal that Badenoch “remove the Kemi from her name” if she is not proud of her Nigerian heritage exemplifies a larger debate over leaders’ accountability to their native country.
Contrasting Badenoch’s words with those of Rishi Sunak reinforces Shettima’s claim; Sunak has maintained a positive narrative about his Indian origin, demonstrating the critical role that leaders have in shaping perceptions. While Badenoch affirms her right to discuss personal experiences and criticisms about Nigeria, leaders must strike a balance between open speech and constructive patriotism. This occurrence prompts contemplation on how people in positions of power manage their dual identities while representing their country on global forums.
Shettima not only defends Nigeria’s image but also stimulates a broader discussion about leaders’ roles in creating a balanced narrative that recognizes both challenges and accomplishments within their cultural heritage. In this context, Shettima’s leadership goes beyond criticism; it represents a challenge to leaders to engage in dialogues that not only solve concerns but also celebrate the rich tapestry of their cultural landscapes.
Shettima’s approach emphasizes the necessity of leaders functioning as both critics and ambassadors, inspiring positive change and harmony in their communities. Shettima’s approach urges leaders to accept a dual role in which they may be forthright about difficulties while still serving as guardians of hope and progress for their countries. Shettima emphasizes the importance of leaders constructively addressing their legacy with a feeling of duty that extends beyond personal complaints.
In light of this, Shettima’s remark is a heartbreaking reminder of the power leaders wield in influencing perceptions and instilling national pride. Shettima’s nuanced approach calls for a contemplative and forward-thinking leadership style, one that recognizes the complexity of identity while working to bridge gaps and encourage inclusivity. Shettima’s leadership calls on other leaders to reconsider their roles as cultural guardians capable of influencing global perceptions and fostering a sense of collective identity.
Shettima’s challenge to Badenoch’s narrative not only preserves Nigeria’s integrity but also establishes a precedent for leaders to engage in productive debates that foster understanding and mutual respect. Shettima’s gentle correction of Badenoch highlights the significance of respectful discussion and a shared commitment to truth in creating an environment in which traditional narratives are not only preserved but also embraced. In doing so, Shettima shows the role of a leader who views constructive criticism as a tool for empowerment rather than alienation, arguing for narratives that are both introspective and globally relevant.
Shettima navigates this difficult subject by emphasizing the importance of a balanced depiction of one’s background as well as acknowledging the different experiences that define individual identities. Shettima displays a leadership style that promotes constructive engagement over divisive language by creating an environment conducive to dialogue among various viewpoints.
In response to Badenoch’s statements, Shettima underlined the significance of respecting and enjoying one’s ancestry while engaging in constructive criticism. Shettima underscores the idea that constructive criticism should try to enhance rather than denigrate by drawing parallels with leaders such as Rishi Sunak, who appreciate their past without dismissing it. By contrasting Badenoch’s complaints with Rishi Sunak’s pleasure in his Indian background, Shettima effectively advocates for a balanced discourse that recognizes the complexity of one’s cultural story while calling for development and reform.
While this has created significant disagreement among Nigerians, many support Shettima’s approach. This support is due to a sense of national pride and a desire for constructive criticism rather than disparagement. Shettima’s claim that Badenoch’s words denigrate her Nigerian ancestry resonates with residents who believe that criticism should be based on love and a desire to improve, rather than contempt.
The divergent responses of Shettima and Badenoch illustrate opposing views on national identity. While Badenoch stresses corruption and insecurity in Nigeria, which are unquestionably important issues, many Nigerians believe her approach lacks nuance and fails to recognize the country’s potential. Supporters think that displaying achievements with criticisms promotes a more fair discussion about Nigeria’s future.
Nigerians’ support for Shettima demonstrates a shared desire for unity and pride in their country. Instead of perpetuating negative preconceptions, they argue for an approach that stimulates debate and seeks solutions. In this setting, supporting Shettima is interpreted as opposing external narratives that do not truly reflect Nigeria’s intricacies. Nigerians who support Shettima are not only defending their country’s image but also arguing for a more dignified narrative that embraces Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and growth.
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This collective mood reflects a deeper desire by Nigerians to recover their narrative and exercise control over how their country is seen on a global scale. This shift to a more positive and self-determined narrative is critical for instilling national pride and encouraging residents to actively participate in the country’s progress. This change towards empowerment and self-representation is critical to redefining Nigeria’s position in the international arena.
I believe that this movement is about instilling in Nigerians a sense of ownership and responsibility to address their own difficulties while enjoying their triumphs, rather than simply responding to external criticism. Simultaneously, this support for Shettima’s position demonstrates a rising awareness among Nigerians of the importance of constructively engaging with their country’s difficulties rather than letting external criticism define their identity. This expanding consciousness is evident in public discourse, which is increasingly emphasizing constructive criticism and collaborative attempts to address national concerns.
Indeed, Kemi Badenoch’s recent utterances on Nigeria have raised serious worries about her potential disloyalty to Britain. Badenoch’s criticism of Nigeria, notably her categorization of northern sections as terrorist havens, appears to emphasize political expediency over a thorough understanding of her country. Such disparaging remarks not only alienate a sizable segment of the Nigerian diaspora but also indicate a readiness to abuse her background for personal advantage. This action could imply that if she can easily betray her native nation, she may also discard British ideals when politically expedient.
I am afraid that this pattern of denunciation may reflect a wish to disassociate herself from Nigeria’s poor image and appeal to British voters. However, this raises concerns about her honesty and loyalty. The “double agent dilemma” suggests that voters may interpret her comments as evidence of underlying disloyalty. Ultimately, Badenoch’s rhetoric may indicate that she is more concerned with political ambition than with defending the principles connected with any nation.
Her stance, marked by the strategic denunciation of her roots, could be interpreted as a tactical strategy to strengthen her position in British politics at the expense of true commitment. Such actions may give British residents the impression that her commitment is more motivated by personal ambition than by national loyalty. This view may weaken trust among constituents, who expect constant commitment to their country’s interests.
This loss of trust could have serious consequences for her political future, as people may look for leaders whose commitment is seen as absolute and steadfast. This sense of opportunism may cause voters to wonder whether her commitment is actually to the country she serves or whether it is only for her personal progress in the political scene. This doubt about her motives may lead people to gravitate toward candidates whose commitment to national interests is unquestionable.
* Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch
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