Politics
2023: Is Kashim Shettima becoming a political rallying point in northeast Nigeria?
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2023: Is Kashim Shettima becoming a political rallying point in northeast Nigeria?
By: James Bwala, Maiduguri
Indications are that all is set for the tackle and thrilling to take place following approval given by President Muhammadu Buhari of February 2022 for the APC National Convention. This has further explained that members of the party may be on the fast track to drool and be drooling one and another from within the ruling party for the opportunity to gain favour and to be voted. This could be either by simple majority or by appointment as it is always with the new style of winning through the consensus. Certainly a lot is ahead for the all out in 2023 and if this arrangement succeeds, there is no doubt that Borno state is on its way to producing the next Nigeria’s second citizen.
However, interestingly the name Kashim Shettima keeps coming amongst gladiators not only from Borno state but also across the northeast region and by extension the larger part of the country. This was observed by both the politicians, rumour mongers and analysts of unfolding events within the APC. The question one may be tempted to ask as the days unfold is that; Is Kashim Shettima now the political rallying point in northeast Nigeria? Facts have shown that his activism or rather do-gooding across the northeast particularly as explained by politicians within the region puts him (Kashim Shettima) at vantage point for political history making within the All Progressive Congress, APC.
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NEWSng reports that, ahead of the 2023 Presidential Election, the South West Movement for Osinbajo (SOWEMOVE) has urged governors and traditional rulers in the region to prevail on the former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step down for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in the battle for the ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress APC. The group has consequently begun lobbying governors, traditional rulers, business and political elites in Yorubaland to carefully weigh various options and seriously consider backing the Vice President, Prof. Osinbajo.
Presenting a report and copies of several correspondences with Obas and other eminent personalities in the South West to the Director of Operations of The Progressive Project (TPP), Alhaji Aliyu Usman Aliyu in Abuja recently, the group said youths of the region will become arrowheads of efforts towards making Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, successor to President Muhammadu Buhari. Perhaps Tinubu is also considering this option, looking at chances to bring down a political “ROCK” with his name encrypted. If that happens and of course with the crystal clear argument on the horizon; it will be the Osinbajo/Shettima ticket. This would be perfect as there would be no sentiments around religion as characterized in the past. And indeed if Tinubu considered this and supported Osinbajo/Shettima, he would undeniably be remembered as a pillar that stabilizes democracy in Nigeria. More to this, he will be the first to make such a record in political history in the country by having two of his political students as the President and Vice President of Nigeria and by extension he would also have the National Assembly as the extension of his political empire.
Speaking on this scheming, Usman Rabiu, a political analyst in Abuja observed that “the southwest geopolitical region of Nigeria has former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its political leader. No one has doubted his capacity in building a strong political territory that is working for him today.” He said “As Tinubu ages, he is not diminishing politically given the fact that he has raised political children occupying strategic political positions. This is a fact that makes him leader of the ruling party in Nigeria. Without any argument he has assumed this position and remained a big voice in the polity of this country.
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“One of Tinubu’s students of politics (Kashim Shettima) is making a positive impact by design, destiny and fate. His feathers were spread like the eagle across the northeast region. He was a successful Banker and as commissioner, he served in five ministries drawing experience in education, Agriculture, finance, Health and Local government ministry. He rose from a super Commissioner to become the first Borno intellectually sound governor. He served his eight years term and gave Borno a successor, who is making not only Borno citizens proud but Nigerians as a whole.” He said.
NEWSng observed that Kashim Shettima, a current serving senator of the Federal Republic representing Borno central is a man who loves books. Such however, is not the like of a typical Nigerian politician but Kashim Shettima’s trend, drift, learning, inclination, tendency, movement and development politically has presented a unique, inimitable, distinctive and matchless political figure.
For a long time the northeast has lost a leader figure firmly in place to give voice to the people, to speak to political firmaments and to present an equally coordinated team for the region. But as the 2023 political year draws by, observation across the region is signifying a revival and presenting a history of lifecycles. When NEWSng spoke with a cross section of the people on leading voices in the northeast, it was gathered that Kashim Shettima stood tall following his activities, connections and marketability. A testament to these facts was when he spoke for the people on the floor of the National Assembly; he was not speaking for the eight local government areas of Borno state where he pledged and represented as a constituency. But when he stood to speak, he did for the northeast region where many representatives have lost their voices on issues and matters regarding the safety and well-being of their people. It was a choice to either go down or stand tall. Such sacrifices only go with charismatic leadership, which Shettima has demonstrated.
Speaking to a former deputy governor, who did not want his name on print for some reasons, he said “I can without doubt say that the fingers of the clock stand exactly on the bright side of the day. There are signals that the buildup for VP in 2023 is pointing towards the former Borno state governor as the political rallying point for the northeast region. Fatefully, this was the position he took in 2015 when he demonstrated mastery of the political game by putting Political Czars of Borno permanently on retirement. Kashim Shettima has mastered the act of gathering a crowd and he selects his lieutenants carefully. You can see that everyone on the other side before is now on this side. This speaks more of his forgiving spirit and open mind.
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“Recently, I have traveled across the northeast states. I have met and chatted with grassroots politicians to feel their pulse about 2023. I have deliberately put questions to them during our long discussion on preferred candidates and making some assessment. While gauging on leading politicians I have found it of interest to speak about the former governor, Senator Kashim Shettima with senior politicians. It was about politics and it is about how to get a leader for the northeast region as we go into another round of politics. We have been supporting the Northwest and it is time for them to support us.
“Our people believe that power belongs to God and only He gives power to those he wishes to give to at a particular point in time. Despite the fact that you can find this saying almost on the lips of every Politician particularly, when election time near or comes about you see politicians also falling over themselves seeking favour from wherever it may come. However, when such favours did not come by they quickly forget this and will begin to look elsewhere as the source of their failure. We have been in that situation in the northeast simply because we have no firm leaders and the political voice has always gone to the northwest. Perhaps this is about time to seek for one and interestingly as well as arrangement by divine we are getting back what we have lost.
“2023 is about a time when Nigerians will again begin to see the manifestation of all kinds of politics. Such belief is beginning to come by as politicians begin to find rallying points to further their aspirations toward making better choices. In Borno state and by extension the northeast, these armies of Political office seekers are beginning to align and realign strategists of finding favour and hoping to be picked by political godfathers for the epic battle. In the northeast, many believed Borno remained the boiling pot doctrinally. And by that, who then is the rallying point? Certainly now is Kashim Shettima because we all are going to need his experience, his connections and thinking faculty and capacity to see beyond the rhetoric.” He said
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Ibrahim Abubakar, a politician from Gombe state also observed that the former Borno state governor has played a key role in reconciling differences among politicians. “If you go through his records as former Chairman of the northern governor’s forum, you will agree with me that he has played a key role in stabilizing the APC when it was hit by crises and almost dividing. He has stepped into many political struggles resulting in misunderstanding between former governors and their successors. He stood in among the senators to calm nerves as well as between members of the National Assembly (Senators/Reps) not only for the extraction from Borno state but also across the country to preach peace. I can go on and on. I think he is a learning political figure worthy of emulation.“
Ba’bunu Wakil also spoke about arrangements and rearrangement within the ruling party ahead of 2023. He made certain disclosures by examining the political trend and mentioning few names but concluding that Senator Kashim Shettima may have been position to take the place of leading political icons that history spoke well of them like the great Waziri Ibrahim whose theory and practice of politics without bitterness still speak to this day.
According to him, “Take everything from Kashim Shettima but you cannot take his vision for Borno, northeast and Nigeria as a whole. Whenever Kashim Shettima is in town, his house becomes like Mecca. It was always like that since he left the Maiduguri Government House. Even the Nicodemus among politicians were not left out. In their characters, they always find him.”
2023: Is Kashim Shettima becoming a political rallying point in northeast Nigeria?
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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