Politics
APC National Chairmanship: The Onus on two great sons of Borno

APC National Chairmanship: The Onus on two great sons of Borno
By: James Bwala
While I was trying to answer the question about the emergence of two former governors from my state contesting for the APC National Chairmanship position, I told a colleague, who put the question to me that, people supporting faces appearing on the pages of newspapers and on Facebook who are aspiring for the position of National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC seemed to be pointing to one direction except the case for Borno state where these two candidates are coming.
Already this has put some people on the fence, who do not understand politics or those who feel they must come clean on both sides. These people seemed to be on the line but to choose and support between two great sons, who had contributed immensely for the growth and development of Borno in their capacities as governors at different times, they have governed the state remains an apocalypse. Ask any neutral person to choose between the two and he would drag the words.
Questions and rumour making the round about their aspiration for the National Chairmanship position of the All Progressive Congress, APC suggested or rather informed my writing of this piece. The mute at either camp has put Borno on the focus and bad politicians have started bringing bad politics to play. But I feel this is not what people should be looking out for. We have had a fair share of differences but politics is politics. This piece may also be speaking the minds of many Borno citizens as I understand from my interaction with few.
I believe the onus is on these two great citizens to inspire courage towards delivering justice, peace, equity and understanding among politicians and to change narratives in the polity of the country if elected. The onus also is on them to demonstrate leadership uncommon as both of them are coming with a magnitude of experience in leadership and administration of people, material and resources. To have them two coming from a state puts Borno at advantage of producing the next National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress.
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Speaking on how Borno people will make a choice between the two however is putting a test between courage and responsibility. “The choice may rather be an unfortunate one at this time because it shows no oneness amongst the people and that is not what Borno state is known for.” As observed by an elder whom I would not mention here.
I have also heard from many of my kinsmen just like the Biblical story of some for Apostle Paul and others for Barnabas but Borno is one and dividing the state along political lines sends streaming lines of cold water running down my spine. It also reminded me of the saying that a divided house cannot stand. This is true as many have come to believe so. But I did not consider this a bad omen looking at it from a political angle if it is to be played along the path of the great Waziri Ibrahim.

“I like Kashim Shettima for his intelligence and oratory.” someone had said, “For me, Modu Sheriff will make a good Leader here, APC needs the rocky type.” Another person said. In all my discussions both Kashim Shettima and Modu Sheriff seemed to be the answer from different perspectives and views of the people, which I hope to unveil as the days draws by. However, one thing remains certain; there cannot be two captains in a ship.
While I speak with many of my kinsmen, friends, associates, colleagues and bystanders I engaged while putting this piece, I also find this to be an all-important puzzle on the political atmosphere brewing. This too will be a story for another day and I wouldn’t want to conclude at this time because surprises keep happening on political thresholds. I keep reminding myself that these are the possibilities politics provides for people. I have no doubt about the two gentlemen trying to sort out their dreams to kick the red button on this national calling. It may be a plus for Borno state on the other hand.
But a fight, I mean a political fight between a supposedly political godfather and political godson should not be presented as horrific as some rumours making the rounds seemed to have been suggesting. Rather it is to be an interesting phenomenon in the entire game called politics. Only the susceptible feels hurt, shifts blame and castigate one another in trying to win favour from this side or that side.
For eight years, I have worked with Modu Sheriff as governor of Borno state and equally worked another eight years with Kashim Shettima. Both of them for me as a Journalist are great inspiration and subject of research in political studies. They have all made their marks as governors of Borno state taking on progressively from one point to another to make the state what it is today and I believe they still have much to offer Borno state and its citizens in their current struggles.
Someone earlier today asked me about the question of Modu Sheriff and Kashim Shettima coming to edge out their political stamina on the battlefield for the seat of the National Chairmanship of the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC. I told him they are both progressive. And sincerely this is my opinion as a Journalist. If I were to be a politician perhaps my answer would have been different.
For many politicians, speaking in this context particularly for those who have had relationships with both Modu Sheriff and Kashim Shettima, the choice depends on how deeply they have been involved either with Modu Sheriff or Kashim Shettima. But at this point, the choice will have to be made either for Modu Sheriff or Kashim Shettima. That was my own explanation.

Even for the governor of Borno state, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the two former governors: Modu Sheriff and Kashim Shettima remain two angels God prepared from heaven to shape his ways. I was very close at a point in time when he came across both of them and on each encounter fortune smiled on him putting him in a very difficult position as many politicians in Borno state who had at various occasions been led by fate and faith to find favour from these two great sons of Borno.
Sheriff is Rocky as they would say and Shettima an Orator, either of them is a Captain in his own right but politics will be played and there must be a winner in the end. For me, it is Borno against the rest of the states – Zamfara, Nassarawa, and Benue for those I could remember and have written about. There is nothing poetic about political battles as being suggested between Sheriff and Shettima. Either side of the coin is a good advantage for Borno if the two roll it out well in their campaigns. The Onus is on them to make Borno state proud.
James Bwala writes from Abuja
APC National Chairmanship: The Onus on two great sons of Borno
Politics
2027: Oppositions will be shocked when Tinubu, Kashim Shettima unveil their next-level move.

2027: Oppositions will be shocked when Tinubu, Kashim Shettima unveil their next-level move.
By Dr. James Bwala
The impending 2027 presidential election in Nigeria is poised to witness a transformative political strategy that will potentially disrupt existing opposition narratives. President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are strategically positioning themselves to unveil a groundbreaking political approach that could fundamentally reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape. Although many in the opposition will wave this revelation with the back of their hands, when this reality unfolds indeed, it will be beyond their dreams.
The potential “next level move” appears to be a sophisticated political maneuver that transcends conventional campaign methodologies. By strategically leveraging their existing political capital and understanding of national dynamics, Tinubu and Shettima are preparing to challenge opposition expectations comprehensively. The emerging campaign strategy suggests a nuanced approach that goes beyond traditional political rhetoric, potentially incorporating technological innovation and targeted demographic engagement.
Moreover, the historical context of their political partnership, rooted in their previous collaborative efforts, provides a strong foundation for their anticipated strategic unveiling. The potential shock factor lies not just in their political maneuver but in their ability to anticipate and preemptively neutralize opposition strategies. This approach demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of Nigeria’s complex political ecosystem, positioning them as potentially transformative political actors in the 2027 electoral landscape.
Their anticipated move is expected to incorporate cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies that could redefine voter engagement and political campaigning in the country. This innovative strategy is not only expected to enhance their political outreach but also aims to tap into the burgeoning youth demographic, which has increasingly become a pivotal force in shaping electoral outcomes. Their ability to harness these elements effectively could serve as a blueprint for future political campaigns in Nigeria, setting a new standard for engagement and strategy. By addressing these critical elements, Tinubu and Shettima are poised to not only captivate the electorate with their innovative campaign but also potentially disrupt the opposition’s conventional playbook.
This bold move could potentially redefine the political landscape by setting new precedents in how campaigns are conducted and how leaders engage with their constituents. Their focus on leveraging these innovative campaign strategies not only signals a departure from traditional methods but also underscores their commitment to inclusivity and modernization in governance. Their strategic foresight in prioritizing digital engagement and addressing the aspirations of a younger, more connected electorate marks a significant shift in political campaign dynamics.
This strategic evolution not only reflects a profound understanding of the shifting political currents but also highlights their readiness to adapt and innovate in response to an increasingly dynamic and interconnected world. Their anticipated initiatives are expected to resonate deeply with a population eager for progress and innovation. Their forward-thinking approach suggests that they are not merely reacting to current trends but are actively shaping the political landscape to align with future demands.
As they prepare to unveil their next-level move, the duo’s ability to engage with diverse demographics and address pressing national issues is likely to fortify their position on the political stage. Their strategic vision, marked by a blend of tradition and modernity, is poised to challenge conventional political paradigms and redefine governance in Nigeria. Their ability to navigate complex political landscapes and engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders underscores their commitment to fostering unity and progress within the nation.
Their strategic vision for Nigeria’s future is expected to address the pressing challenges of economic diversification, security, and infrastructure development, thereby positioning the nation on a path toward sustainable growth and stability. Their commitment to addressing these critical areas indicates a strategic foresight that not only aims to elevate Nigeria on the global stage but also seeks to ensure equitable growth and development across all regions of the country. Their next move, characterized by a bold and transformative agenda, is anticipated to not only address existing socio-economic disparities but also to harness Nigeria’s vast potential in technology and innovation.
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This approach, which seamlessly integrates technological advancements with traditional governance practices, is likely to inspire a new wave of political engagement and innovation across the nation. Their focus on cultivating a digitally-savvy workforce and promoting technological education is expected to drive innovation and entrepreneurship, thus providing new opportunities for Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population. Their emphasis on harnessing Nigeria’s youthful energy and creativity is anticipated to transform the economic landscape. Their commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering an inclusive digital economy is set to revolutionize industries and open up new avenues for growth, ensuring that Nigeria remains competitive in the global market.
Their innovative policies are set to address the long-standing issues of unemployment and economic dependency on oil by fostering a robust environment for startups and small businesses. Their proactive measures to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil are likely to not only boost local industries but also attract foreign investments, thereby positioning Nigeria as a hub for innovation and sustainable growth. Their strategic initiatives are expected to significantly reduce economic reliance on oil, thereby addressing one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges and setting a precedent for sustainable development. Their dedication to addressing these challenges through strategic planning and innovative solutions underscores their vision for a self-sufficient and thriving Nigeria.
With unwavering dedication, these transformative policies are likely to catch the opposition off guard. Their forward-thinking agenda, characterized by an emphasis on digital transformation and economic diversification, is poised to not only enhance Nigeria’s global standing but also fortify its internal socio-economic structures against future uncertainties. Their comprehensive approach to governance, particularly in tackling systemic issues like corruption and inadequate infrastructure, further solidifies their commitment to sustainable development and could potentially redefine the political landscape in Nigeria.
The ability to navigate complex political landscapes with strategic acumen and innovative thinking clearly indicates that Tinubu and Kashim Shettima are way ahead of the 2027 mastermind calculations for the keys to Aso Rock. And this is likely to leave the opposition unprepared for the sweeping changes that Tinubu and Shettima are set to introduce. Their adeptness at leveraging technology and fostering public-private partnerships is anticipated to revolutionize key sectors, such as healthcare and education, making these services more accessible and efficient for all Nigerians.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
2027: Oppositions will be shocked when Tinubu, Kashim Shettima unveil their next-level move.
Politics
El-Rufai: A calculated yet potentially ineffectual strategy to challenge Tinubu and Shettima’s re-election bid in 2027.

El-Rufai: A calculated yet potentially ineffectual strategy to challenge Tinubu and Shettima’s re-election bid in 2027.
By: Dr. James Bwala
The recent political maneuver by former governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, left many political observers laughing. El-Rufai remains a new clown in the political arena since his rejection as a minister from Kaduna State under the Tinubu administration. El-Rufai’s defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) represents a calculated yet potentially ineffectual strategy to challenge President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s 2027 reelection bid. El-Rufai’s move, characterized by claims of ideological divergence from the APC, appears more rooted in personal political ambitions than substantive systemic transformation, which he continually hopes Nigerians believe.
Critical analysis suggests that El-Rufai’s defection is symptomatic of intra-elite power reconfiguration rather than a genuine oppositional movement. The strategic repositioning reflects deeper fractures within Nigeria’s political landscape, where elite negotiations supersede meaningful democratic representation. While El-Rufai attempts to mobilize opposition figures like Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, the fundamental power structures remain remarkably unchanged.
Ultimately, the proposed alliance faces significant challenges. The fragmentation of opposition forces, combined with the APC’s entrenched political machinery, renders El-Rufai’s efforts potentially futile. His defection might be interpreted as a symbolic gesture rather than a substantive challenge to the incumbent administration, highlighting the persistent limitations of Nigeria’s contemporary political dynamics. He has been seen moving from one big political figure to another, including going to the home of the former president in an attempt to give credence to his moves, yet he could not clean up the traces of his aging and diminishing relevance in the circle of politics. Despite El-Rufai’s efforts, the entrenched political dynamics and the lack of a cohesive ideological framework within the opposition diminish the likelihood of any substantial electoral upset in 2027.

The lack of a unified vision and coherent policy proposals among these opposition figures only exacerbates their inability to present a credible alternative to the electorate. Given the historical context of electoral politics in Nigeria, the absence of a cohesive opposition strategy further compounds the challenge of altering the status quo, rendering El-Rufai’s defection more an act of political theater than a catalyst for genuine change. Moreover, the entrenched interests and loyalties within the APC continue to present formidable barriers to any meaningful opposition realignment.
The political landscape appears to be more about individual ambitions and less about a unified front capable of mounting a serious challenge to the incumbent powers. This scenario underscores the cyclical nature of political realignments in Nigeria, where shifts often reflect personal ambitions rather than a genuine ideological departure from established norms. While El-Rufai’s attempts to forge alliances with other opposition figures such as Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rabiu Kwankwaso signal a desire to create a formidable coalition, the reality remains that such alliances often crumble under the weight of competing interests and personal ambitions, leaving the electorate disillusioned with yet another cycle of political theatrics. Moreover, the historical pattern of political defections in Nigeria suggests that such moves are often perceived as mere strategic repositioning rather than genuine ideological shifts.
Despite the theatrical nature of these political maneuvers, the entrenched power dynamics and loyalty networks within Nigeria’s political landscape make it exceedingly difficult for any new coalition, no matter how strategically crafted, to truly upend the status quo. While El-Rufai’s intentions may appear bold, they are unlikely to disrupt the deeply entrenched political machinery that has long favored incumbents like Tinubu and Shettima.
Despite these efforts, the pervasive influence of existing political structures suggests that any such coalition is more likely to fracture under pressure rather than mount a successful challenge. Given the entrenched interests and historical voting patterns, it appears unlikely that such a coalition could effectively disrupt the established political dominance of Tinubu and Shettima in the upcoming election. This skepticism is further compounded by the perception that El-Rufai’s defection and subsequent coalition-building efforts are more about personal political survival than a genuine commitment to transformative change. Despite the apparent allure of a united front, the reality remains that these alliances often falter under the weight of conflicting agendas and entrenched political loyalties. Moreover, the historical precedent of political realignments in Nigeria often results in temporary alliances that lack the cohesion necessary to present a formidable challenge to established power structures.
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The skepticism surrounding El-Rufai’s defection is echoed by the Nigerian Presidency and APC, who dismiss his move as a futile endeavor motivated by personal ambition rather than a genuine ideological shift. Indeed, El-Rufai’s maneuver is less about ideological realignment and more a reconfiguration of elite power dynamics within the ruling class. As observed by many political analysts, the political landscape remains largely unchanged, with the same elite power dynamics at play, suggesting that any perceived threat from El-Rufai’s move is unlikely to materialize into a significant challenge.
This skepticism is further reinforced by the broader historical context of Nigerian politics, where similar attempts to consolidate opposition forces have often unraveled due to internal dissent and the prioritization of individual ambitions over collective goals. Additionally, the inherent volatility of such coalitions, often marred by a lack of unified vision and the dominance of competing interests, further diminishes their potential to unseat entrenched incumbents. Historical patterns also suggest that such coalitions often struggle to sustain momentum and coherence, especially when faced with the entrenched influence of incumbents like Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Given this context, El-Rufai’s efforts to rally opposition figures like Peter Obi and others around the SDP banner might appear ambitious, but without a cohesive strategy or compelling ideological narrative, such alliances are prone to fragmentation and ultimately ineffectual in altering the prevailing status quo.
The entrenched political machinery supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima possesses significant resources and influence, making it a formidable barrier for any nascent coalition lacking internal solidarity and a resonant national platform. Despite these strategic maneuvers, the historical precedent and current political landscape suggest that El-Rufai’s efforts may ultimately falter against the deeply entrenched systems supporting Tinubu and Shettima.
The historical resilience of incumbent structures in Nigerian politics, characterized by their adept patronage networks and control over vital state apparatuses, presents another significant challenge for any opposition coalition seeking to disrupt the status quo. Without a clear ideological foundation and a unified agenda that resonates with the broader electorate, such attempts are often perceived as mere political repositioning rather than genuine efforts to instigate meaningful change. In 2027, President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima will take the oath again for the second time, and El-Rufai will still have no political credibility to make a difference in Nigeria’s political circle.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
El-Rufai: A calculated yet potentially ineffectual strategy to challenge Tinubu and Shettima’s re-election bid in 2027.
Politics
2027: Vice President Kashim Shettima will rewrite Nigeria’s political campaign history again.

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.
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