Politics
Brazilian VP Visit: The leadership and humility in VP Kashim Shettima reaffirms the rich cultural heritage in Africa.

Brazilian VP Visit: The leadership and humility in VP Kashim Shettima reaffirms the rich cultural heritage in Africa.
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s act of opening the car door for Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin symbolizes a profound demonstration of humility not only in political leadership but also drawing from the cultural and religious agreement to give respect to one another and especially the elderly. Such gestures, though seemingly minor, convey respect and equality among dignitaries, breaking conventional barriers often associated with hierarchical power structures. This behavior challenges traditional perceptions of authority by emphasizing service over status.
The incident sparked mixed reactions online; while some critics argued that it was inappropriate for a high-ranking official to perform such a task, many praised Shettima’s conduct as an example of empathetic leadership. Humility in leadership fosters collaboration and mutual respect, qualities essential for effective diplomacy and governance. By prioritizing respectful interpersonal interactions, Shettima exemplifies how small acts can enhance diplomatic rapport and humanize political figures.
Kashim Shettima’s gesture goes beyond mere etiquette; it reflects an intentional embodiment of humility that contributes positively to international relations. His action serves as a reminder that leadership grounded in humility can bridge cultural divides and promote unity among global leaders.
I think those backlashing the vice president over his demonstrative humility fail to take a closer look at Kashim Shettima’s cultural and traditional upbringing. In many Nigerian communities, especially in the Northeast where Shettima hails from, cultural norms emphasize respect and humility as essential virtues. The phrase “Bakon Ka Annabin Ka,” which translates to “Your visitor is also your prophet,” encapsulates this ethos, underscoring the importance of honoring guests and valuing their presence regardless of status. This proverb reflects a deep-seated tradition of hospitality intertwined with reverence, which likely informs Shettima’s comportment.
From an academic perspective, understanding political figures through the lens of their sociocultural backgrounds provides richer insights into their behavior and leadership style. Demonstrative humility, often misunderstood in contemporary politics as weakness or insincerity, can instead be interpreted as an authentic expression rooted in cultural values. Thus, criticisms against Shettima overlook how his demeanor aligns with longstanding societal expectations that prioritize respectfulness and deference within communal interactions.
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By appreciating this cultural context, one can better comprehend how Shettima’s actions resonate with the constituents who share these traditional values. This appreciation fosters a more nuanced dialogue about leadership qualities that transcend mere political performance, highlighting the intricate interplay between personal heritage and public service. In this light, the backlash against his humility appears less as a critique of personal character and more as a misunderstanding of the cultural narrative that shapes his public persona. Such misinterpretations not only risk alienating leaders from their communities but also diminish the richness of cultural diversity in political discourse.
The cultural dimensions that inform leaders like Shettima to act as such are very rare. We can cultivate a more inclusive political environment that celebrates diversity and encourages genuine understanding across different societal norms. Recognizing the depth of cultural influences allows for a more empathetic and informed evaluation of leadership, where actions are seen not just in isolation but as part of a larger tapestry of inherited wisdom and community values. This perspective invites a shift from superficial judgments towards a deeper appreciation of how cultural heritage informs and enriches the leadership landscape. It is through this lens of cultural appreciation that we can begin to see humility not as a weakness, but as a profound strength that fosters unity and respect within diverse communities.
For emphasis sake, the act of Vice President Kashim Shettima exemplifies the deep-rooted humility embedded within African heritage and culture, particularly in the context of respecting elders. The Brazilian vice president, being an elderly man, received from Shettima a gesture that goes beyond mere protocol; it reflects a cultural ethos where reverence for age and status is paramount. Such humility is not only a personal virtue but also a communal value, central to African traditions where respect forms the foundation of social interactions. This behavior aligns with Shettima’s well-documented philosophy of humble service and consideration for others, which has been highlighted as characteristic of his leadership style.
Those who dismiss these actions as insignificant or contrary to African values either misunderstand or lack the humaneness intrinsic to this culture. In essence, Shettima’s conduct reaffirms the rich cultural heritage that prioritizes dignity and respect in interpersonal relations.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Brazilian VP Visit: The leadership and humility in VP Kashim Shettima reaffirms the rich cultural heritage in Africa.
Politics
ADC and Coalition 2027: The Fractured Ties Between Atiku, Kwankwaso, Obi, and El-Rufai

ADC and Coalition 2027: The Fractured Ties Between Atiku, Kwankwaso, Obi, and El-Rufai
By: Dr. James Bwala
All four politicians still have their ropes hanging in the former or soon-to-be former political party. El-Rufai has left the APC but could not have a place in the SDP, as the party denied him being their member. While he is still dancing in ADC, no one knows for sure what his aims are as the party quietly watched him and closely checked on his character. Mr. Peter Obi is still grappling with which way to go and still consulting with a madman for direction. It is still unclear whether he has stepped his foot firmly in ADC, as he constantly looks back to his Labour Party. Kwakwanso’s last move against the presidency is an indication that things are falling apart. He is rumored to make a full move soon into the ADC to challenge Atiku and others for the party’s ticket but still wants to be present in his party, the NNPP, holding both goalposts in that confusion. Atiku Abubakar left the PDP allegedly for fear of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. He may be having favor in ADC; however, he is relying on some of his foot soldiers within the PDP to run his game. And the confusion continued.
It was Fela Kuti, the famous Nigerian musician and activist, that created powerful and celebrated songs, which are now reminding us of what he was trying to address in our political theater, and long after he was gone, we see this song making meaning of political issues in Nigeria, especially with the current confusion unfolding in the ADC. I could mention many of his songs that reflected on the current political drama, but one such song that comes to mind and well addresses the current drama and confusion within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) political party is “Zombie.” Fela sang this song and released it in the 1970s, looking at the political confusion at that time and criticizing the blind obedience of soldiers and the political leadership that manipulates them. The game ADC is planning to play with Nigeria ultimately for selfish gains. And “Zombie” can be applied to the themes of the music that reflect the ADC position amongst its leadership and fellowship, explaining the disarray amongst its leadership and struggles within its ranks for impact against a formidable force, which President Tinubu and Kashim Shettima literally command today.
It was not too early to state that the 2027 general elections in Nigeria are shaping a battleground for the glory of those who are ready to take it. The renewed HOP initiative of the Tinunu and Kashim Shettima administration is making waves and winning in the argument of who holds the political aces. On the other hand, when we look at the political maneuvering and shifting alliances among the most notable figures in the soon-to-be race, we can see the old faces and actors like Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai. While we cannot deny them of their pedigree on the political landscape, these leaders political backgrounds and ambitions fail them. They face a complex web of relationships that could make or break their chances, and we have this to say: the dynamics between them have already shown signs of tension. It is already suggesting that things may soon fall apart as the elections approach.

I am not speaking about Rotimi Ameachi in this context because he has his battles to face with Wike as political issues unfold. Choosing the ADC to form a coalition of opposition may be a good strategy, but ambition knows no brother, and greed will always kill a friend in a struggle. Their coming together not in one accord put ADC on the edges of collapse as the party now faced significant challenges stirred by internal conflicts, leadership disputes, and ideological differences. No thanks, but thanks to the ambitious politicians who are hungry and angry, as they made us understand. Indeed, the problems they have brought to once a quiet and still political party stem from a lack of sincere, collected reforms and collaborative coalition. This is making it difficult for them to work towards common goals. And like the soldiers in “Zombie,” who are depicted as mindlessly following orders, some leaders and members of the ADC have shown a failure to critically engage with the party’s vision, goals, and objectives that will engage in political adventure towards success. Nigerians now observed, and what they are saying is that these men are not here to foster democratic values but to promote their personal interests. This is leading to confusion and instability within the party, as being a witness within the party despite the sugar coating with seemingly smiling faces that is hiding the monster soon to be revealed within.
Atiku Abubakar, the former vice president, is indeed a veteran politician. But his marriage to many political parties makes him a man of unstable ways in the political arena. The former vice president has long sought the presidency and continues to position himself as a unifying candidate. However, his recent alliance with various factions within party politics has drawn criticism. Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and a prominent figure in the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), found himself in the valley of decision while he lingered on the choices to make, revealing his greed for power and lack of focus on what he was out to pursue in the political arena. He was tipped to join the APC, but his eyes run over choices leading to a breakdown in relationships in political connections. His fight with the presidency over his alleged claims that the North has been neglected further pushes him to the benches to seek connections with the coalition. Kwakwanso is known for his grassroots connection and populist rhetoric; his appeal lies in his ability to mobilize support in the northern regions. Nevertheless, his ambitions may clash with those of Atiku if he joins the ADC, as rumor has it. If he did, both would be targeting similar voter demographics, potentially leading to conflict rather than collaboration in a coalition.
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Another gladiator fielding in the ADC platform for the coalition is Mr. Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and candidate of the Labour Party. Peter Obi has gained significant traction among the youth and educated class. His campaign focuses on economic reform and anti-corruption, appealing to a generation that seeks change. However, Obi’s rising popularity has not gone unnoticed, and it threatens to draw support away from both Atiku and Kwankwaso. With the calls by Nigeria for power to be shifted to the South, the ADC may be forced to side with the voices of Nigerians, and that means a lot to the Atiku and Kwankwaso camps. The competition for the same voter base could exacerbate tensions among the candidates, leading to further fracturing of alliances within the ADC. The dumping of the APC, the clinging of the SDP, and now the pitching with the ADC bring to the floor a comedy of Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State. Nobody knows who he is standing with. For Atiku, Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, or for himself? Whatever position he is taking, he is adding another layer to this intricate political scenario. El-Rufai’s reputation for controversial policies and governance style might alienate certain voters, but he also has a solid support base within the political landscape. El-Rufai’s position might create friction with the other candidates as he navigates his political future amid allegations of mismanagement and public discontent.
Looking from the prism of Fela Kuti’s music, the understanding often highlighted the importance of awareness and critical thinking among citizens. The late Afrobeat singer encouraged listeners to question authority and not accept information at face value. This message is particularly relevant today, as the ADC grapples with factions and conflicting interests. The inability of the party to present a unified front to the public can be compared to the soldiers in “Zombie” marching in unison but without genuine intent or purpose. It serves as a reminder for ADC members to strive for integrity and collective action rather than mere conformity to leadership decisions, which may not always reflect the party’s true values.
While we count the cakes, the value of gold is soaring as the elections draw closer. The potential for conflict among Atiku, Kwankwaso, Obi, and El-Rufai is palpable. Each leader is striving to consolidate their position while contending with increasing competition. If these leaders cannot find common ground and create meaningful alliances, they will risk undermining their respective reasons for collaboration and coalition. Consequently, the ADC might witness a fracturing of relationships, leading to a political landscape where collaboration becomes unlikely, ultimately impacting the future of the party. And this explains the significance of Fela Kuti’s protest music. This transcends time, providing valuable insights into the political landscape of Nigeria today and going beyond what we are talking about in the corners from what we see and observe. Fela Kuti’s powerful lyrics and compelling messages encourage present and future generations to engage actively with political issues. It is crucial for ADC leaders and members to listen and learn from the lessons embedded in Kuti’s music, particularly the necessity of unity and a commitment to democratic ideals. As confusion continues to persist within the party, embracing a more collaborative and transparent approach will be essential for party survival. For us on the other side, “Zombie” is good music and should continue as the confusion in ADC rages.
- James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
ADC and Coalition 2027: The Fractured Ties Between Atiku, Kwankwaso, Obi, and El-Rufai
Politics
President Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of VP Kashim Shettima’s role underscores the trust placed in him.

President Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of VP Kashim Shettima’s role underscores the trust placed in him.
By: Dr. James Bwala
President Bola Tinubu’s public expressions of gratitude toward Vice President Kashim Shettima for his integral role before, during, and after the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari signify a consolidation of their political alliance amid circulating rumors regarding Shettima’s potential replacement. In a widely viewed address, Tinubu explicitly acknowledged Shettima’s efforts in managing sensitive responsibilities surrounding Buhari’s final days and funeral arrangements, thereby underscoring the trust placed in him. This public commendation is particularly noteworthy given the speculation about discord within the administration, which had suggested that Shettima might be sidelined.
The president’s deliberate acknowledgment not only affirms Shettima’s loyalty but also indicates a strategic move to quell uncertainties about internal leadership dynamics. By highlighting Shettima’s pivotal involvement during this national moment of mourning, Tinubu appears to reinforce unity within his government and project stability to both domestic and international audiences. Such gestures are essential in maintaining cohesive governance during transitional periods marked by political sensitivities. Indeed, this public affirmation serves to dispel any notions of internal discord and emphasizes a unified front within the presidency.
By publicly lauding Shettima’s contributions, Tinubu not only addresses the rumors head-on but also strategically positions his administration as resilient and unified in the face of potential political upheaval. In doing so, Tinubu not only strengthens his alliance with Shettima but also aims to present a cohesive leadership team that can effectively navigate the challenges posed by such a significant transition. As President Tinubu continues to publicly express gratitude towards Vice President Shettima, it becomes increasingly clear that this relationship is not only intact but also pivotal in navigating the complexities of governance.
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This strategic acknowledgment is further underscored by Tinubu’s emphasis on collaborative governance, highlighting the administration’s commitment to continuity and collective effort. As the administration navigates this delicate period, Tinubu’s public commendation of Shettima’s efforts sends a clear message of solidarity and mutual respect.
The public nature of these expressions ensures that any speculation regarding Shettima’s replacement is directly addressed, reinforcing the administration’s unity and shared purpose during this sensitive period. By reinforcing Shettima’s integral role and expressing appreciation for his efforts, President Tinubu not only dispels any doubts about their working relationship but also strengthens the perception of a stable and united leadership team. This approach not only quells any uncertainty but also emphasizes a narrative of resilience and cooperation within the highest echelons of government.
The public acknowledgment of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s contributions by President Bola Tinubu serves as a strategic affirmation of their collaborative governance and seeks to dispel any lingering doubts about their relationship. This gesture, in the context of circulating rumors and misinterpretations, sends a clear message to critics and skeptics who perceive discord within the administration. By openly recognizing Shettima’s role, Tinubu not only reinforces unity but also counters unfounded speculation regarding internal struggles.
Moreover, such an explicit endorsement aligns with calls from political commentators urging the president to directly address replacement rumors that have fueled division. The clarity offered through this public commendation diminishes space for mischief and undermines narratives that seek to destabilize the administration. Given prior instances where Shettima’s statements were misconstrued yet reaffirmed as supportive of Tinubu’s policies, this move consolidates trust within the executive branch and signals stability to both domestic and international observers.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
President Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of VP Kashim Shettima’s role underscores the trust placed in him.
Politics
Nigeria: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.

Nigeria: Politics: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.
By: Dr. James Bwala
The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has significantly disrupted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition’s strategy ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections. The ADC had planned to leverage Buhari’s political legacy to challenge the ruling party, particularly targeting Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima. However, with Buhari’s passing, the coalition faces internal disarray as their anticipated advantage dissipates, complicating efforts to unify opposition forces and capitalize on northern political sentiments.
The ADC has openly criticized President Tinubu’s administration for exploiting Buhari’s death to improve its own public image. The party accuses the government of orchestrating a “political theater” through federal tributes designed as calculated PR stunts, aiming to garner sympathy among Buhari loyalists and consolidate support in the north. This appropriation undermines opposition narratives that sought to use Buhari’s legacy as a counterweight against Tinubu and Shettima.

Buhari’s death has not only unsettled opposition coalitions like the ADC but also enabled the ruling government to manipulate public sentiment strategically. The evolving political landscape demands new approaches from opposition groups if they are to remain competitive in the forthcoming elections.
As the political scene shifts, the ADC and other opposition parties must reevaluate their strategies to effectively counter the ruling party’s growing influence and maintain relevance in Nigerian politics.
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The ADC and its allies must now craft a narrative that resonates with the electorate, focusing on policy-driven agendas rather than relying solely on Buhari’s legacy to galvanize support. In this context, the ADC and its coalition partners are urged to adopt innovative campaigning strategies that prioritize tangible policy proposals addressing economic development, security, and social welfare to effectively engage a diverse voter base across Nigeria.

The ADC coalition must build robust alliances with civil society organizations and grassroots movements to amplify their reach and effectively challenge the entrenched political structures that favor the incumbents. The ADC’s ability to articulate a clear vision for Nigeria’s future while addressing the electorate’s immediate concerns will be crucial in countering the ruling party’s narrative and regaining political ground.
To achieve this, they must also navigate the complex political dynamics that have emerged in the wake of Buhari’s death. With Buhari no longer a unifying figure, the ADC and its allies face the daunting task of redefining their identity and political message to resonate with a broader audience. However, to successfully reposition themselves, the coalition must also address internal discord and unify their ranks to present a cohesive front that can withstand both political and public scrutiny. Moreover, the coalition’s efforts must be strategically aligned to counter any attempts by the ruling party to exploit Buhari’s legacy for political gain since they claimed the ruling party is already gaining from Buhari’s death.

A peep into recent developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition has revealed emerging sentiments of regret among some members regarding the defection of key figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. These “feelers” suggest that certain individuals who left the APC, particularly associates of former President Buhari, may be reconsidering their decisions due to unforeseen political challenges and instability within their new alignments. The dynamics underscore the complexities inherent in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, where shifting allegiances often reflect strategic calculations as much as ideological commitments.
While official sources and detailed analyses remain scarce, such internal reflections within the ADC coalition highlight potential fractures that could influence electoral outcomes and party cohesion. This situation aligns with broader observations about Nigeria’s opposition coalitions struggling to present a unified front against dominant parties. Understanding these regrets provides critical insight into how political realignments might affect both intra-party stability and national electoral strategies moving forward.
This introspection may also indicate a broader dissatisfaction with the current trajectory of the ADC, as it struggles to accommodate diverse political interests and ambitions within its ranks. Moreover, the decision to defect appears increasingly precarious as the ADC grapples with internal divisions and questions about its capacity to serve as a viable opposition platform. As the political landscape continues to shift, these internal tensions could lead to a reevaluation of strategic alliances and prompt key figures to reconsider their roles within the ADC. This growing sense of uncertainty may compel some members to seek reconciliation with the APC or explore alternative political alliances that promise greater stability and influence.
While this political storms raged, the activities of both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice President, Distinguished Senator Kashim Shettima during the recent burial ceremony has been critically analyzed by a renowned political analyst who posited that the event underscored the formidable alliance between Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima.

This observation highlights how the ceremony served not merely as a cultural or religious rite but also as a potent political statement. By showcasing unity and solidarity, the event effectively dismantled attempts by detractors to sow discord between these two influential figures. The analyst’s perspective suggests that such public displays of cohesion reinforce their combined political capital, which is essential in navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
The burial ceremony functioned as a symbolic platform where communal respect and shared values were emphasized, reflecting positively on Tinubu and Shettima’s partnership. The orchestrated unity at this solemn occasion counteracted divisive narratives propagated by opposition forces aiming to weaken their collaboration. Thus, the analyst’s insight reveals how socio-political events can transcend their immediate contexts to influence broader power dynamics, reinforcing alliances crucial for effective governance and political stability.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Nigeria: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.
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