Politics

2023: MUSING OVER OSINBAJO AS APC’s JOKER FOR PRESIDENT

Published

5 years ago

September 27, 2021

News Net Global

2023: MUSING OVER OSINBAJO AS APC’s JOKER FOR PRESIDENT

By: Inuwa Bwala

If truly Nigeria’s diversity is an asset, then our quest for peace, justice and equality must be seen in our attitudes towards each other, in trying times, as we seem to be now.

To this effect, where the next President of Nigeria should come from ought not to elicit any form of debate. It may not be in our written laws, neither does there need to be an agreement that power should rotate between the North and the South, but common sense dictates that we should give each other a sense of belonging.

We all know and are witnesses to attempts by particular groups in other climes to dominate leadership and the often disastrous outcomes of such attempts.

It may be needless restating my position that in the spirit of justice and fair play, the next President of Nigeria should come from the Southern part of the country. Those who argue that it can come from any part of the country are being uncharitable to Nigerians, in the face of the tension being generated.

Except if we accept that the North wants to dominate political power perpetually, we need to give others a chance. Since 1999 when Nigeria returned to Democratic rule, the position of the President has been oscillating between the North and the South. The attempt to breach that unwritten accord was what saw the back of Goodluck Jonathan from the Presidency in 2015.

Also Read: Nigeria travelers to UK will still be quarantined

Many highly placed Nigerians who are concerned about a future peaceful country have echoed this position to the effect that the South should produce the President after Muhammadu Buhari. It is therefore needless restating justifications for the call to allow the South produce the next President, as the reasons for it are all known. What should occupy our minds should have been the type of person who has the capacity and who commands acceptance across regional, ethnic and religious lines.

This argument supports the submission of the South East, to the effect that one of their own should be given the chance. This throws up such names as Rochas Okoraocha, Peter Obi, Ike Ikweramadu, and Hope Uzodinma amongst others. But the activities of IPOB have generated too much suspicion lately, and insisting on a South Easterner at this point may not be feasible. Perhaps, we need someone who will stabilize the feelings of exclusivity.

Many people also want former Lagos State Governor, now National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, but the odds do not seem to favour him either, given his state of health and other considerations.

It was while musing over the right calibre of person Nigerians should consider in the days ahead that my mind switched to the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. Nobody seems to be talking about Osinbajo, since he cautioned against using his perceived ambition to heat up the polity. And he does not appear ambitious either.

But come to think of an Osinbajo leadership, in the face of the potential he has exhibited as vice President. We have seen the impacts he made on governance and politics, during his regency, when the President was away.

I have not met the Vice President before in life, but I have keenly monitored his activities and utterances and I dare say the man is intellectually well grounded, easy going, unambitious, God fearing and exhibits a high sense of patriotism and deligence.

In his several outings, I have seen a man, who even as a lawyer, has good organizational ability, high economic sense and brutally frank, besides his noticeable unalloyed loyalty to the President.

If truly we seek for a leader with broad knowledge of contemporary trends in governance, and who has the requisite connections in every endeavour, I think there cannot be a better choice for the APC than the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. This is assuming if the party hopes to win the 2023 elections.

He may not have shown any form of desperation, nor exhibited the type of contumacy often displayed by people in leadership, rather, he has demonstrated a rare sense of retrospection towards the good of Nigeria.

I know that Professor Yemi Osinbajo is being nudged to join the fray, but he may feel it is too early in the day to speak. But if the journey of a thousand miles starts with a step, then I feel it is time we begin taking that step now by identifying suitable combinations for the Presidency in 2023.

Should Yemi Osinbajo be the APC joker, I am of the view that his running mate should come from the North East. This is given the fact that, the region will be better off with the Vice Presidency than they would with any other position, Is including that of the National Chairman if the APC.

After a more critical reexamination of the situation, I feel the North East should produce the Vice President to make up for what it lost with Ambassador Babagana Kingibe in the 1993 annulment. The region should therefore support the emergence of the National Chairman of APC from either the North Central or North West, while pursuing the possible emergence of the Vice President from the North East. I will not suggest names, as that is a more likely choice, as that will be a topic for another day. But the body language of Nigerians are suggestive of the likely choices from Borno in particular, who could fit into the combination.

With Osinbajo, a Christian from the South West and a Muslim, North Easterner, I feel Nigerians will be coming closer to erasing perceived notions about domination and suppression. The South East could have the Senate Presidency for now, and the North Central the Speaker of the House of Representatives or National Chairman of the APC, while the Secretary to the Government of the Federation or the National Chairman of the APC goes to the North West. The next Chief Justice of the Federation can go to the South/ South as well as the Head of the Civil Service. The Security Chiefs and heads of Security agencies will be evenly spread.

This arrangement could go a long way in assuaging the feelings of neglect, now rampant amongst various interest groups. Just musing.

2023: MUSING OVER OSINBAJO AS APC’s JOKER FOR PRESIDENT

Politics

2027: Ishaya Malgwi does not reflect the sentiments or intentions of northern leadership nor the stance of Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Published

3 days ago

April 8, 2026

News Net Global

Vice President Kashim Shettima.

2027: Ishaya Malgwi does not reflect the sentiments or intentions of northern leadership nor the stance of Vice President Kashim Shettima.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Insinuations by one, Mr. Ishaya Malawi, on the political happenings should be seen as the imaginations of his mindset. While he is free to make comments or statements as democratically allowed, there is a need for him to trade with caution, particularly in his attempts to drag the personality of the vice president, Kashim Shettima, into his imaginative sentiments. Recently, Mr. Ishaya Malgwi made an assertion suggesting that northern leaders might consider urging Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, to contest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This claim has sparked considerable debate and requires a measured response grounded in fact, loyalty, and an understanding of the current political trajectory of Nigeria under the APC administration. It is crucial to address this insinuation with clarity and responsibility to uphold the integrity of our democratic institutions and promote constructive political discourse.

Firstly, it is essential to establish that the suggestion by Mr. Malgwi does not reflect the sentiments or intentions of northern leadership nor the stance of Vice President Kashim Shettima himself. His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, is unequivocally loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and firmly committed to the collective vision and mission of the APC government. The relationship between the president and the vice president is founded on mutual respect, shared goals, and a dedication to the welfare of Nigerians. To insinuate otherwise undermines not only their personal integrity but also the unity and progress of the ruling party.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/umth-when-vp-kashim-shettima-acknowledges-ahidjo-and-hospital-staff-for-their-services-to-victims-of-maiduguri-bomb-blasts/

The APC government, since its inception, has been dedicated to fostering good governance, promoting inclusive development, and ensuring security and stability across the nation. Contrary to the portrayal of a fragmented administration, the APC operates as a cohesive entity working tirelessly to address the myriad challenges facing Nigeria. The claim that the APC is running parallel or competing governments within itself is unfounded and detrimental to the image of the administration both domestically and internationally. Such assertions risk sowing discord and confusion among citizens, detracting from the government’s focus on delivering tangible results.

Also, it is important to contextualize the prevailing issues of unrest, insecurity, hunger, and dissatisfaction within a historical framework. These challenges are not novel to the Tinubu administration; rather, they are deep-rooted problems inherited from previous administrations, exacerbated over years by complex socio-economic and political factors. While the current government acknowledges these issues and is actively working toward sustainable solutions, it is misleading to suggest that these problems originated solely with the APC’s leadership. Political discourse should therefore be grounded in reality and aimed at constructive engagement rather than unfounded blame.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/umth-when-vp-kashim-shettima-acknowledges-ahidjo-and-hospital-staff-for-their-services-to-victims-of-maiduguri-bomb-blasts/

Mr. Malgwi’s reputation for disseminating unsubstantiated claims and engaging in provocative rhetoric must also be considered when evaluating his recent comments. Political dialogue in Nigeria demands responsibility, accountability, and a commitment to truth. When individuals like Ishaya Malgwi resort to spreading misinformation or making baseless allegations, they do a disservice to the democratic process and undermine public trust in governance. It is imperative that criticism, when necessary, be based on factual evidence and delivered respectfully to enhance national cohesion.

In dispelling the notion that Vice President Kashim Shettima might run against President Tinubu, it is also pertinent to highlight the Vice President’s demonstrated loyalty and active involvement in advancing the administration’s agenda. Vice President Shettima’s role extends beyond mere symbolism; he is deeply engaged in policymaking, outreach, and implementation of government programs. His efforts have consistently aligned with the president’s policies, reflecting a harmonious partnership aimed at stabilizing and developing the nation. To drag his name into speculative and divisive narratives not only misrepresents his position but also risks damaging the political harmony essential for effective governance.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/umth-when-vp-kashim-shettima-acknowledges-ahidjo-and-hospital-staff-for-their-services-to-victims-of-maiduguri-bomb-blasts/

Mr. Ishaya Malgwi should know that the political unity within the APC is pivotal for Nigeria’s progress. The party’s platform is built on principles of inclusivity, democracy, and national development. Internal cohesion ensures that the party can effectively address pressing national concerns such as economic revitalization, security challenges, infrastructure development, and social welfare. Attempts to insinuate internal contests or rivalries without substantial proof serve no purpose other than to destabilize the party and distract from its governance responsibilities.

The insinuation by Mr. Ishaya Malgwi regarding Vice President Kashim Shettima’s potential opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu within the APC is baseless and misleading. It does not represent the views of northern leaders or reflect the reality of the administration’s internal dynamics. Vice President Shettima remains a loyal and integral part of the Tinubu-led government, which continues to pursue policies aimed at good governance and national development.

The APC is not a house divided; it is a government determined to unify Nigerians and drive the country forward. Political discourse should honor the principles of truth, respect, and constructive criticism to foster an environment conducive to Nigeria’s growth and stability. Mr. Malgwi and others must exercise caution and responsibility in their public statements to avoid unnecessary political agitation and focus instead on supporting efforts that uphold Nigeria’s democratic values and collective prosperity.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: Ishaya Malgwi does not reflect the sentiments or intentions of northern leadership nor the stance of Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Politics

ADC; Coalition Is Not Enough

Published

1 week ago

April 4, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

ADC; Coalition Is Not Enough

By Kunle Awosiyan

Sincerely, if you observe the politics of Bola Ahmed Tinubu keenly and critically, you will realise that he is a very thorough politician.

He goes beyond merely spreading his tentacles to bring people into his fold; he deploys every available tool to outmanoeuvre his opponents.

He looks beyond coalition-building, studying his adversaries like a football coach analysing opponents, identifying loopholes and exploiting them to secure victory.

Though trained as an accountant, Tinubu has immersed himself in research, journalism, and law, transforming these disciplines into strategic assets in his political playbook.

This is where many of his opponents have faltered. Rather than studying him, they have focused more on blackmail and rhetoric.

Instead of carefully navigating the legal and institutional frameworks of politics, they appear fixated on hastily dislodging him by jumping into any available political platform without adequately addressing procedural and legal vulnerabilities.

They needed a platform, no doubt, but have shown insufficient patience and diligence to close loopholes that could ultimately undermine their efforts.

Those in the opposition today, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), appear unprepared for the level of work required to clinch power.

If Tinubu were a football coach, he would lose very few matches and only by slim margins. He would win many more, including major trophies. Any coach hoping to defeat such a team must not only be intelligent but exceptionally thorough.

It is time the opposition understands that democracy, in its modern form, goes beyond the classical definition of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It now encompasses the strategic deployment of law, not just the accumulation of votes, as a pathway to power.

Interestingly, the purported chairman of the ADC and former Senate President, David Mark, recently criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, over its interpretation of the legal principle of status quo ante bellum.

This followed the derecognition of his leadership by the commission.

While the legal jargon may be complex, the implication is clear: those within the ADC understand the power of law in a democracy, yet have failed to deploy it effectively, choosing instead to blame Tinubu for their own strategic missteps.

The ruling party, All Progressives Congress, had swiftly replied ADC that neither the president nor the party is involved in its woe.

Ironically, two prominent figures within the ADC leadership ranks, Peter Obi and Rauf Aregbesola once benefited from judicial victories at different points in their political careers, underscoring the very importance of legal strategy in electoral contests.

Politicians seeking to challenge Tinubu, including Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, Nasir El-Rufai, Aregbesola, and Obi still have significant work to do if they are to mount a serious challenge. It is unfortunate that many appear to interpret democracy primarily through the lens of coalition-building, without deeper strategic grounding.

If Obi does not fully grasp this, one would expect Aregbesola given his political history with Tinubu to understand it better. Over the years, Tinubu has built structured teams: legal, economic, security, and political dedicated to analysing and countering opposition forces.

Among those in the ADC, Aregbesola may be the closest in experience to Tinubu’s model, but he cannot do it alone. One individual cannot match a coordinated network of experts working with a singular objective.

Let it be clear: INEC is not the enemy. However, it is bound by the rule of law and cannot act in defiance of court decisions.

Ultimately, for politicians who believe they can simply assemble themselves and appeal to public emotion through criticism of the ruling party, the reality is stark: modern democracy demands far more. It requires depth, structure, strategy, and above all, smartness.

ADC; Coalition Is Not Enough

Politics

Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari: The Unassailable Choice for APC Candidate in Borno State

Published

3 weeks ago

March 25, 2026

News Net Global

Distinguished Senator Abubakar Kyari

Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari: The Unassailable Choice for APC Candidate in Borno State

By: Dr. James Bwala

Let me look at this personality as Borno State gears up for the 2027 governorship election, intense speculation surrounds the candidate who will represent the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Among the array of contenders, one figure emerges with an unparalleled pedigree, extensive political experience, and strategic alliances that position him as the most compelling choice for the next governor of Borno state— Senator Abubakar Kyari. His distinguished background, formidable political track record, and connections to Nigeria’s top leadership underscore why he is not only the natural front-runner but also the candidate most capable of leading Borno State into a prosperous future.

Senator Abubakar Kyari’s pedigree is arguably unmatched by any other aspirant within Borno State’s political landscape. He hails from a prominent family with a deep tradition of public service. His late father, Brigadier General Abba Kyari, served as military governor of Kaduna State — a position that symbolized trust, responsibility, and leadership during a critical period of Nigeria’s history. This legacy has bestowed on Senator Kyari a foundation of respect and influence that few candidates can claim. History often demonstrates that political acumen and commitment to governance run in families, and if this pattern holds true, Senator Kyari is poised to etch his own name in the annals of Borno State’s political history.