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BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

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4 years ago

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BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

BY CHRIS GYANG

Nothing rattles Mr. President. That is, the way the leader of a country that has fulfilled all the undignified requirements of a failed state naturally should.

Confronted with relatively less problems, leaders of other democracies, even dictatorships, have been known to quake, but gather themselves up and trudge on. But not Mr. Buhari. He appears to have crumbled a long time ago from the sheer weight of the responsibilities of governance.

Even the uptick in kidnappings for ransom, armed banditry, Fulani herdsmen’s violent land-grabbing in parts of the Middle Belt, Islamist terrorism, mind-bugling corruption in the corridors of his administration and run-away inflation, among others, do not shake our president no more. Afterall, these are the frightening outcomes of his lethargic, laid-back, leadership style.

Quite instructively, in April this year, a prestigious Scottish university shared the picture of President Buhari on twitter reclining comfortably on a settee at the presidential palace picking his teeth, obviously after a sumptuous meal. This is in stark contrast with the poverty, hunger and general state of discontent ravaging ordinary Nigerians. According to the institution, the picture was used to illustrate bad and insensitive leadership. They accurately hit the bull’s eye.

That twitter representation of our president also captured the very essence of the man and his leadership style in a country buffeted on all sides by monstrous problems, most of them caused by a leadership deficit. But even before then, because the president had continued to show an almost complete lack of interest in the burning problems threatening to over-run the country, there was a time it was widely believed that the man in Aso Rock was Buhari’s body double, a foreign impostor from Sudan known as ‘Jubril.’

Many Nigerians could not rationalize how a true national leader could display such crass ambivalence to the tempests tottering the ship of state. And although the conspiracy theory that it was Jubril of Sudan and not the ‘original’ Buhari who gave the plagiarized “I am for no one but for everyone” speech that was at the Villa was later proved wrong, Mr. Buhari has remained as aloof and absent-minded as ever.

Many other Nigerians who claimed he had dementia still hold on to that belief and cite Mr. Buhari’s tepid responses to the killings, abductions for ransom, armed banditry, armed herdsmen’s attacks, etc, as glaring examples. 

But there is still a very notable exception to these. Matters of partisan politics, wielding and dispensing power (with large doses of nepotism) and choosing his own successor, excite Mr. President in no small measure. To Buhari and the core northern political, religious and feudal establishments, political power is an end in itself. They proudly call it MULKI up north and hanker after it with uncommon zeal.

For them, controlling the levers of the Federal Government is sufficient, even if large swathes of their own states are in the hands of terrorists, bandits and other well-armed gangs. For them, it is enough to be president even if your region holds the ignoble record of having the largest number of poor people and out of school children in the country, not to mention their concomitant consequences. 

Unfortunately, it is these and such other beliefs that have underpinned Buhari’s administration in the last seven years. And it is on that basis that he wishes to impose another northerner on the country during his APC’s presidential convention. 

It is so frightening that President Buhari’s misplaced but growing sense of entitlement, self-accomplishment and self-worth make him feel that he should be allowed by the ruling APC to single-handedly determine its presidential candidate in next year’s election. Apparently, he wants to perpetuate this sweltering nightmare, state of anomy, that has become Nigeria’s new normal since he assumed power in 2015.

In a meeting with APC governors on May 31, 2022, President Buhari spelt out his demand in no uncertain terms. DAILY TRUST newspaper (June 1, 2023) captured it this way: “President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday dropped a bombshell when he told the governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to allow him to make a choice for his successor.”

According to the tabloid, the governors were taken aback because they had expected the president to allow them choose one of them to succeed him. But the president’s demand should not have come as a surprise to the governors because there appears to have been an understanding between them and the president on this matter. Thus, he reminded them that the Party had already put in place smooth succession plans at the local government, state and national levels. 

“For example,” Mr. Buhari explained, “first term governors who have served credibly well have been encouraged to stand for re-election. Similarly, second term governors have been accorded the privilege of promoting successors that are capable of driving their visions as well as the ideals of the party.”  

Aggrieved Party members in states such as Plateau who felt that their second-term governors unjustly imposed their successors in the recent primary elections now know that they did so with the tacit backing of Aso Rock. The pact was that the governors would also bend over backwards to serve the interest of Mr. President when it comes to choosing his own successor. 

So if such APC members had had any hopes of extracting justice through the intervention of Mr. Buhari or their Party’s national leadership, they should kiss that hope goodbye.

Now the president wants his pound of flesh from the state governors. He is telling them that, in the spirit of give and take, they should also allow him choose the presidential candidate of the APC. During that meeting with the governors, he proceeded to pontificate about the values of democracy and the goals and benefits of good governance in a way that completely belied his democratic credentials and the way he has misled the country so far.

Hear him: “In a few days, the party will be holding its convention during which primaries would take place to pick the presidential flag bearer for the 2023 General Elections. This is a very significant process and its outcome should prove to the world, the positive quality of the APC regarding democratic principles, culture as well as leadership.

“As we approach the Convention, I appeal to all of you to allow our interests to converge, our focus to remain on the changing dynamics of our environment, the expectations of our citizens and the global community. Our objective must be the victory of our party and our choice of candidate must be someone who would give the Nigerian masses a sense of victory and confidence even before the elections.” Mere platitudes, as usual.

Also Read: Kashim Shettima: Victory at the end

The president even emphasized the need to meet the expectations of the global community as if he had made any spirited attempts in his seven years in office to effectively leverage on the strategic position and immense human and natural resources of the country to make it a key global player.

With an intractable Islamist rebellion and armed Fulani herdsmen’s expansionism going on almost unabated, the Buhari administration has consistently shown the international community that it lacks the moral courage and political will to put a stop to these and other forms of bloody criminality that have become the order of the day all over the country. As a result, most of the global community has now adopted a stand-and-watch attitude towards Nigeria as it goes about its half-hearted motions of battling insecurity. 

It is a continuation of this that the president wants the APC to allow him perpetuate by choosing a northern candidate to succeed him. No doubt, the feeling that he wants to impose a northern candidate on the APC has caused great disquite in the ranks of the party and frayed a lot of nerves. Apparently, now that it suits their whims, power shift and zoning may as well go to the dogs. But once upon a time, in fact only about eight years ago, Buhari and the core north tightly held on to these principles with religious zeal and threatened to upset the political apple cart if they were not strictly upheld. And they had their way because good reason prevailed.

The outbursts of the National Leader of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on June 2, 2022, at Abeokuta, Ogun State, clearly underscored this growing tension, dissatisfaction and suspicion both within the APC and the polity generally, considering the fact that it is this political party that is in charge of running the affairs of the country. 

In obvious response to Buhari’s shinanigans, an apparently frustrated Tinubu declared: “If not me that led the war front, Buhari wouldn’t have emerged. He contested first, second and third times, but lost. He even said on television that he won’t contest again. 

“But I went to his home in Katsina. I told him you would contest and win, but you won’t joke with the matters of the Yorubas. Since he has emerged, I have not been appointed minister. I didn’t get contract. This time, it’s Yoruba turn and in Yorubaland, it’s my tenure.”

In the last few days, there have been strong indications that the president may very likely cave in to pressure from the cabal in the Presidency, chiefly made up of his relatives and a few high-ranking officials in his government, and select between the Senate President, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan (an ultra-conservative core northerner) and former Zamfara State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Yarima (the man who first introduced Sharia as state law while he was governor) as the APC’s consensus presidential candidate. Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anger must have been fueled by these widespread speculations which are gradually gaining traction.  

But in a swift response, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Babachir David Lawan, lashed out at Tinubu’s grandstanding, describing it as ‘bulshit’ (sic). Now, it’s significant to note that this is coming from a man who is one of Tinubu’s closest political allies. In fact, he was among the heavyweights that purchased the APC Presidential nomination form for Tinubu and has been a leading force in his campaign to be President in 2023.

But Lawan, a self-professed northerner, appears to have sided with the core north and Mr. Buhari against his political ally. And his vituperations would further reveal the deep-seated suspicion the core north has harboured against the Yoruba, spanning decades. VANGUARD newspaper quoted him as saying: “Sometimes it is very difficult to support a Yoruba person in national politics if you are not one.

“They have a way of making you regret your support because they eventually make you seem like a traitor to your own people. Now all these comments about Bola’s Yoruba presidency and his support of Buhari without which Buhari would not have been President is bulshit.”

He pointed out that there were many other Nigerians from other parts of the country who also contributed in making Mr. Buhari President but were “not bragging about it” and expressed regret that “You may wish to know that all of us Buhari supporters are shocked and pissed off by Bola’s speech on this occasion. It is unlike him.

“And this speech is massively trending in the North and being given a negative connotation as you can well imagine. I first read it this morning on an Adamawa group platform and the anger is palpable and all round.”

Certainly, the fact that Buhari wishes to single-handedly select the APC Presidential candidate is creating big cracks in the APC as old comrades tear each other to shreds, egged on by their deep ethnic and regional cleavages. These have now been exposed by the stress of this brutal struggle for the APC Presidential ticket. But Babachir Lawan is not yet done. He must remind the Yoruba and other Nigerians about one of Bola Tinubu’s tribesmen whose stars, he believes, were dimmed by similar attitudes.

“This appears to be the Abiola saga,” he said, “being replayed. Abiola won the election with majority Northern votes but they took the brunt of the post-election protests that followed.

“Just survey all the people that are doing more meaningful practical things to enthron (sic) Bola as President and you will find that almost all are northerners while his kinsmen engage themselves in social media activism and Northern bashing.

“When Yorubas vilify the North like this, our sense of fear and insecurity under a Yoruba presidency gets heightened and in the end, pushes us to re-think our support for not only Bola but any Yoruba as President for that matter.”

But he concluded on this rather conciliatory note: “Please, do not join our opponents to destroy our chances of clinching Monday’s primary elections.”

Nevertheless, Buhari’s consensus candidate gambit has already done irreparable damage to the APC. It can only get worse and may well be the last straw that will break this camel’s back. Buhari is taking a dangerous shot in the dark. 

He is blindly groping in the dark, like he has done with the destiny of Nigerians and their motherland in the last seven years, with these catastrophic consequences. In this highly risky blind man’s buff game he is playing, the odds are dangerously high. He may just lay his hands on the wrong person. And things will definitely fall apart.

(GYANG is the Chairman of the N.G.O, Journalists Coalition for Citizens’ Rights Initiative – JCCRI. Visit our website: https://jccri-online.org. Follow us on our Twitter handle: @jccri1. Facebook

page: facebook.com/jccrionline.  Emails: info@jccrionline.org; chrisgyang01@gmail.com)

BUHARI’S CONSENSUS CANDIDATE: THE BLIND MAN’S BUFF

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The Fear Of Shettima: Atiku, Amaechi Draws New Blueprint to Battle Tinubu in 2027

Published

1 day ago

on

July 13, 2026

By

Vice President, Kashim Shettima

The Fear Of Shettima: Atiku, Amaechi Draws New Blueprint to Battle Tinubu in 2027

Dr, James Bwala

As Nigeria hurtles towards the 2027 general elections, a palpable tension underlines the political landscape. Behind closed doors, strategic alignments and calculated meetings signal a brewing contest not just between the established parties but within their ranks as well. Central to this unfolding drama is the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket’s choice of Kashim Shettima as Bola Tinubu’s running mate—a development that has stirred considerable anxiety among key opposition players, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). From the grapevine, the opposition’s focus is less on Tinubu himself and more on the formidable political threat posed by Vice President Kashim Shettima. This was further examined on how Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi are crafting a new political blueprint to counter this threat, reshaping Nigeria’s electoral battlefield well before votes are cast in 2027.

At the centre of the 2027 electoral chessboard lies the ADC’s conscious strategy to challenge the APC from both inside and outside traditional power structures. The party’s recent activities unveil a concerted attempt to recalibrate Nigeria’s political dynamics, particularly in the North, where the influence of Kashim Shettima is most pronounced. The narrative emerging from the discreet yet intense meetings involving Atiku Abubakar and other political heavyweights underscores the gravity with which the opposition views Shettima’s ascendancy. This fear is not merely individual or symbolic; it is reflective of a deeper recognition that Shettima represents a rejuvenated force capable of galvanising northern politics in favour of the APC’s continuity.

To appreciate why Shettima evokes such apprehension, one must examine his political trajectory and the implications of his vice-presidential nomination. Kashim Shettima, former governor of Borno State and a stalwart within the APC, commands significant respect and influence in the northern geopolitical zones. His governance record in Borno State, marked by efforts to combat insurgency and foster development amid adversity, has elevated him beyond mere party politics to a symbol of resilience and leadership. Aligning with Tinubu, a southern powerbroker, Shettima crafts a cross-regional ticket designed to bridge Nigeria’s ethno-political divides—a factor that considerably strengthens their presidential bid’s appeal.

It is precisely this potent combination that has galvanised opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar, Amaechi, and their allies to devise meticulous plans aimed at counterbalancing Shettima’s rise. Their behind-the-scenes meetings—such as Atiku’s engagement with Senator Abdullaziz Abubakar Yari and Amaechi’s consultations with political heavyweights like Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and Abubakar Malami—reflect a deliberate effort to consolidate northern interests under alternative leadership. These alliances betray an understanding that cracking the APC’s grip on northern votes necessitates presenting credible and relatable candidates who can align with the electorate’s aspirations.

The opposition’s tactical moves extend beyond mere coalition-building. There is a clear orchestration of information campaigns targeting Shettima’s political and personal history meant to erode his public image. By deploying media platforms with carefully curated narratives, the opposition seeks to undermine Shettima’s credibility, thereby diluting the APC’s combined ticket strength. This strategic attack underscores a keen political calculation: that diminishing Shettima’s influence is the key to destabilising Tinubu’s overall electoral equation. It is telling that these efforts focus primarily on Shettima rather than Tinubu, highlighting the vice-presidential candidate’s important role in this contest.

This intense focus on Shettima also exposes evolving trends in Nigerian politics, where the vice-presidential candidate’s profile increasingly affects electoral outcomes. Traditionally, presidential candidates have dominated public discourse, but Shettima’s selection signals a shift—showcasing how regional representation, personal charisma, and security credentials can decisively sway voter sentiment. The opposition’s acknowledgement of this reality by tailoring their strategies accordingly reflects a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s complex electoral calculus.

However, it is necessary to recognise that the opposition’s blueprint is not merely reactionary but also visionary. The alliances being put in place with certain APC stalwarts and influential figures across the political spectrum, Atiku and Amaechi are attempting to forge a broader coalition transcending ethnic, religious and party lines. This approach aims to neutralise the APC’s hegemonic hold by offering a compelling alternative that speaks to national unity and inclusive governance. Such a vision could impact powerfully with an electorate weary of entrenched partisanship and yearning for effective leadership.

Critics may argue that this intense preoccupation with Shettima risks overshadowing substantive policy debates and reducing the election to personality clashes. While this concern merits consideration, it is important to recognise that Nigerian politics historically intertwines personalities with policy, given the country’s diverse socio-political fabric. Hence, electoral strategies naturally gravitate towards leveraging influential individuals who embody broader ideological and regional narratives. In this context, the opposition’s emphasis on Shettima is a pragmatic response to the realities of Nigerian electoral politics, not an aberration.

The proactive steps being taken by the ADC and its allies demonstrate a mature political strategy rooted in early engagement and organised planning. By initiating conversations and stakeholder engagements well ahead of 2027, they are positioning themselves to avoid last-minute surprises and build momentum over time. This long-term approach contrasts with episodic and reactionary campaign tactics seen in past elections, underscoring a strategic evolution within Nigeria’s opposition circles.

The emergence of Kashim Shettima as Bola Tinubu’s running mate has profoundly reshaped the dynamics of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race. The opposition’s fear, centred on Shettima rather than Tinubu, is a testament to the vice-presidential candidate’s political capital and symbolic weight. Atiku Abubakar’s and Rotimi Amaechi’s engagement in intricate political manoeuvres and alliance-building exemplify a sophisticated blueprint designed to counter the APC’s strengthened ticket. This evolving scenario highlights the changing nature of Nigerian politics, where regional representation, personal influence, and strategic coalition-building will likely determine electoral success. 

As the 2027 elections approach, Nigerian voters and political observers alike should watch closely how these behind-the-scenes calculations translate into public campaigns and ultimately shape the nation’s democratic trajectory. The battle against Shettima—and by extension, the APC—has only just begun, promising a fiercely contested and consequential electoral season ahead.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The Fear Of Shettima: Atiku, Amaechi Draws New Blueprint to Battle Tinubu in 2027

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Kashim Shettima: When Loyalty Pays

Published

3 days ago

on

July 11, 2026

By

Vice President, Kashim Shettima

Kashim Shettima: When Loyalty Pays

By: Dr James Bwala

In Nigerian politics, loyalty is frequently tested, and the allegiance of political actors can sway as swiftly as public opinion. Yet, amidst this volatility, we stood, and our steadfastness not only shaped the trajectory of Tinubu and Shettima’s alliances but also solidified the very foundation of their successful leadership during the last three years of the administration. Vice President Kashim Shettima’s emergence again as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 elections is a vivid testament to his strategic stewardship, loyalty and partnership. If there are any lessons we learnt from VP Kashim Shettima, they are his calmness in the face of a storm. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/special-report-when-governor-zulum-announces-government-plans-to-employ-50-youths-each-across-27-local-governments-in-borno/

VP Kashim Shettima epitomises the indispensable pillar of Tinubu’s ticket, embodying resilience, dedication, and a vision that transcends mere political expediency. His journey together with Tinubu is not just a political coincidence but a deliberate and principled alliance—a bond forged through trials, mutual respect, and shared aspirations for Nigeria’s future.

For the gravity of Kashim Shettima’s role in the Tinubu ticket, it is essential to understand the context within which their partnership flourished. Nigerian politics, much like any other democratic system, is riddled with factionalism, shifting loyalties, and the constant jockeying for power and influence. Against this backdrop, many politicians have allied themselves opportunistically, aligning only when it benefits their immediate ambitions. 

And during those days even those of us who are learning to hold the robes, some of us, have given way. By contrast, my unwavering support for Shettima over the years and in those trying moments has never wavered, even when circumstances appeared unfavourable. This constancy is not simply a matter of personal affinity but a calculated commitment grounded in conviction and trust—qualities that are rare and invaluable in Nigerian political circles, as my brother and friend Hon. Yunus Mairami, who has been following my articles, penned in his few lines with prayers that swell my emotions. 

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/special-report-when-governor-zulum-announces-government-plans-to-employ-50-youths-each-across-27-local-governments-in-borno/

For me, Kashim Shettima’s significance on this ticket extends beyond his political stature or the formal title he now holds as vice president. He symbolises the “life of the Tinubu ticket” because he brings more than just electoral advantage; he brings a narrative of resilience and authenticity. When the path appeared uncertain, when scepticism about the Muslim-Muslim ticket permeated political discourse, and when other politicians scrambled to reposition themselves in pursuit of favour, I remained resolutely by Shettima’s side. Not because I thought this day would come, but I knew it would come, and here we are. 

This was not naive optimism but a deliberate stance anchored in deep belief—not only in his character but also in the strategic soundness of our coalition. Political battles are often likened to storms, and while many sought shelter amid the tempest, we chose to stand firm on a solid ground of trust and shared purpose. The biblical story of King David and his men in the Cave of Adullam serves as an apt metaphor for this loyalty. David’s companions who endured hardship alongside him in the cave were those who ultimately ascended with him to the palace. 

The truth about leadership and loyalty is that those who remain steadfast during moments of obscurity and struggle deserve to share in the rewards of victory. Although they said this principle does not reflect the Nigerian system, I believe this principle guides my relationship with Shettima. He never forgets. Our alliance was not forged out of convenience or fleeting advantage but through shared battles and unyielding faith. Such loyalty is not blind allegiance; it is a recognition of genuine leadership and an affirmation of enduring values.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/special-report-when-governor-zulum-announces-government-plans-to-employ-50-youths-each-across-27-local-governments-in-borno/

I met critics, a lot of them, on this journey, who asked me about the viability of the Muslim-Muslim ticket in the Nigerian political reality, given the country’s complex religious and ethnic diversity. They argue that such a pairing risks alienating significant constituencies and igniting tensions. I have stood on the ground that, if it did not happen in 2023, it will not happen in 2027 because Nigeria is more than a religious chessboard. Today, we celebrate again the selection of Shettima as Tinubu’s running mate. This is a strategic masterstroke that defies simplistic interpretations based solely on identity politics. It is a testament to the maturity and vision of both leaders, signifying a commitment to unity, national integration, and the transcendence of divisive narratives. Shettima’s track record in the last three years demonstrates his capacity for effective governance and resilience in the face of adversity. These qualities make him not just a symbol of loyalty but an embodiment of a competent and courageous leader. 

The political landscape in Nigeria demands partnerships that are rooted in trust and mutual respect rather than transactional calculations. The political arena is deeply impacted by intrigue, shifting allegiances, and often self-serving manoeuvres. In such an environment, Shettima’s steadfastness provides a stable anchor for the Tinubu campaign. When many doubted his place on the ticket, and when internal forces applied pressure to reconsider the alliance, my support never faltered. This is the hallmark of a loyal soldier—one who does not waver in the face of adversity but remains committed to the cause and the leader. Such loyalty is not merely symbolic; it is a strategic asset that strengthens the ticket’s cohesion and credibility.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/special-report-when-governor-zulum-announces-government-plans-to-employ-50-youths-each-across-27-local-governments-in-borno/

The role of loyalty in political success cannot be overstated. Historical and contemporary examples alike illustrate that the most enduring political triumphs are often those built on relationships of trust and shared sacrifice. Loyalty fosters unity, mitigates internal divisions, and galvanises collective effort towards common goals. In the case of Tinubu and Shettima, this loyalty is not unidirectional. Shettima himself has publicly acknowledged the steadfastness of his supporters and allies, recognising that political victories are the product of collaborative dedication. This mutual recognition fortifies the partnership, enhancing its resilience against external pressures and internal dissent.

The congratulatory messages I have received from many quarters underscore a broader recognition of Shettima’s important role on Tinubu’s ticket. His selection and the affirmations are not mere pleasantries but reflections of the political community’s acknowledgement of his contributions and potential. The prayers for me to be among the recipients of a victory award signify solidarity and confidence in the shared journey towards electoral success. It is a collective endorsement of the values of loyalty, perseverance, and principled leadership that Shettima embodies. Such communal validation reinforces the argument that Shettima is indeed the lifeblood of the Tinubu ticket. I salute the President for the courage and belief he has in Kashim Shettima. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/special-report-when-governor-zulum-announces-government-plans-to-employ-50-youths-each-across-27-local-governments-in-borno/

The emergence of Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 elections is a historic and strategically sound development. It is the culmination of a loyal partnership forged through mutual respect, shared struggles, and an unwavering belief in a common vision for Nigeria. Against the backdrop of political opportunism and uncertainty, Shettima stands out as a figure of integrity and resilience—qualities that are indispensable for sustaining a successful political alliance and for guiding Nigeria towards stability and progress. 

Loyalty nourishes leadership and ensures that those who endure together triumph together. With Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Tinubu ticket is not merely positioned to win an election; it is poised to lead Nigeria with a united and purposeful heart. I congratulate him now and always, confident that our shared commitment will yield victory and a lasting legacy come 2027.

Kashim Shettima: When Loyalty Pays

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Nigeria: The cacophony surrounding calls for Tinubu’s resignations, Shettima’s replacement, and protests ahead of 2027 general elections 

Published

3 weeks ago

on

June 23, 2026

By

President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima

Nigeria: The cacophony surrounding calls for Tinubu’s resignations, Shettima’s replacement, and protests ahead of 2027 general elections 

By: Dr James Bwala

The constant political arguing in Nigeria, with people asking for President Bola Tinubu to step down, wanting Vice President Kashim Shettima to be replaced, loud protests about safety issues, and constant talk about how this government is worse than before, is getting louder and more expected as the 2027 elections get closer. These upsets, even though they seem strong, usually follow a repeating pattern that’s more about political shows than real change.

As history shows, even with all the talk and distractions, Tinubu and Shettima’s government is set to finish its term by 2031. The so-called prophets who predicted their failure will fail; political people who take advantage of situations will gain from it; sceptics and those who don’t know much will wake up and see the tough facts they ignored; and organisers of protests will end up losing money, since only a few people make money from big group actions. Indeed, Nigeria’s political situation has been a recurring theme in every election cycle since the country regained democracy in 1999. In fact, to end this cycle, Nigerians need to move beyond misleading words and regional divisions and start looking for answers inside the country to its ongoing problems. History shows that these issues started right after independence, when regional identities began to grow stronger.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/unite-north-vp-shettimas-call-for-peace-and-unity-among-northern-communities/

The main issue causing tension now is the opposition’s demands both outside the APC and inside the party for President Tinubu to step down right away and for Vice President Shettima to be removed as well. These demands, driven by angry public protests and strong opinions in the media, usually come from feelings of being unsafe and dissatisfaction with how the government is handling things. People can understand why they’re unhappy—because there are still problems like banditry, kidnappings, and fights between communities—but these complaints often forget about the political system that the Tinubu-Shettima government works within. Nigerians should understand that running a country is a difficult and long process, and big changes usually don’t happen quickly. Moreover, the laws and constitution help keep elected officials safe from being removed without good reason. So, the better approach is to work with the existing systems to bring about change, instead of using strong emotions that don’t lead to real results and cause problems for everyone else.

Making things more complicated are the natural comparisons people make between this government and previous ones. Critics frequently refer to past governments to point out the weaknesses of Tinubu and Shettima or to praise the successes of former leaders. However, these comparative analyses often have problems with selective memory and biassed opinions. Every government in Nigeria since it started being a democracy has faced many different problems—like economic issues, conflicts between different ethnic groups, corruption, and dangers to safety. No government has come into power without being affected or having won completely. Nigerians should focus on the future instead of comparing who did better or worse. They should look closely at how policies are working and make sure people are held responsible, no matter which political group they belong to. This approach would create a political culture where people give honest feedback instead of constantly pointing fingers at each other.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/unite-north-vp-shettimas-call-for-peace-and-unity-among-northern-communities/

The constant demand for change before the 2027 elections isn’t just happening in Nigeria; it’s something that happens in many democracies around the world. In Nigeria, this political trading has turned into a ritual, where the same people keep winning and others keep losing. The powerful political leaders use this situation to gain more control, while the voters keep moving between feeling hopeful and becoming disappointed. This pattern weakens the process of building a stable democracy and leads to people feeling distrustful and disappointed. For real and long-term change, Nigerians need to go beyond just talking and pretending and instead focus on making big, lasting changes to the system. This means making government organisations stronger, keeping things open and honest, teaching people about their rights and how to participate, and making sure everyone has a say in decisions. The country can only break free from this never-ending pattern of letdown by dealing with the real problems at the heart of the issue.

A major obstacle to Nigeria’s political progress is the ongoing use of regional and ethnic-religious language to divide people. Politicians and groups with special interests frequently use these splits to gain more support, which unintentionally makes society’s differences worse. These methods might help in the short run, but they usually make people distrust each other and slow down the country coming together. The result is a country that is split up, making it hard to work together on important issues, and it’s tough to find good answers to big problems. Nigerians should work together to stop harmful stories that divide people and build a shared sense of belonging that goes beyond local concerns. Seeing diversity as a strength instead of a weakness helps create teamwork and supports long-term growth.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/unite-north-vp-shettimas-call-for-peace-and-unity-among-northern-communities/

It is just as important to recognise the role that voters play in continuing or stopping this cycle. When people don’t care about voting because they don’t trust the system or feel things aren’t changing, it makes democracy weaker and gives more power to those who are already in control. Voting without proper information, based on things like ethnicity, religion, or favouritism, hurts the idea of meritocracy and makes government work less effectively. It’s essential to give citizens strong civic education that covers everything they need to know. A knowledgeable group of voters can make leaders answer for their actions, ask for honesty, and push for rules that improve the country’s health. So, strong involvement from citizens is really important for changing Nigeria’s political direction towards stability and success.

Protests can be a valid way for people to show they disagree with something in a democracy, but they only work well if they have clear goals and are organised in a smart way. In Nigeria, many protests turn into shows that help a few people make money instead of pushing for real changes in policies. The cost of putting on protests usually comes from people who are already struggling, but those who organise them get political power or money in return. For protests to lead to real changes, they need to be supported by ongoing efforts to raise awareness, talking with people in power, and taking real steps to make things happen. People and groups that work for the good of society should adjust their approaches to focus on peaceful, inclusive, and effective ways of making changes.

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In the end, solving Nigeria’s many complex issues isn’t about sudden changes in government but about working together to create strong systems and ensure fair leadership for everyone. President Tinubu’s and Vice President Shettima’s government, just like the ones before them, will finish the time they are supposed to serve according to the country’s laws. The real question is whether Nigerians will use this time to work with the government in a positive way, take part in elections and other democratic activities, and ask for honest and responsible actions from those in power. Only by having citizens who are committed and responsible can a country move past repeated failures and create real, lasting improvements.

The loud noise and chaos about people demanding resignations, new leaders, and protests before Nigeria’s 2027 elections show a long history of political problems without real changes. The urge to see government through the eyes of short-term anger or political competition only keeps the country’s problems going. Nigerians need to stop lying to themselves, stop focusing on dividing the country by region, and work together in a united way to deal with the problems they all face. By doing this, they can escape the repeating pattern of political compromises and create a lasting plan for the country’s growth and peace. The future of Nigeria relies not on empty words but on a lasting dedication to shared responsibility and fair leadership for everyone.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nigeria: The cacophony surrounding calls for Tinubu’s resignations, Shettima’s replacement, and protests ahead of 2027 general elections 

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