Politics

Elections Are Not Magic Shows

Published

2 years ago

July 20, 2022

News Net Global

Elections Are Not Magic Shows

By: Senator Kashim Shettima

Being my acceptance speech on being chosen as the running mate of the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the 2023 Presidential Elections in Abuja, Nigeria, on July 12, 2022.

Protocols:

My first duty, is to first of all acknowledge the position that His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari occupies, in the remarkable history of our great party, the APC; as well as the role he has played, in the history of our dear country, Nigeria.

Secondly, I must also firmly underscore the remarkable political journey of our leader, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His incredible vision and strength of character, have helped us to the point where our party evolved to, as the giant of the Nigerian political scene.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, we are lucky indeed, to be standing on the shoulders of these two remarkable political titans.

There’s no weight I carry very carefully, as much as the burden of trust, and learning from public servants, who never take the expectations of the public, for granted. I’m standing here today because of the benign testaments of those who believe in me—those who crawled so that some of us could walk, and those who walked, for others to run.

The successes of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the past two presidential elections, were not magic shows. They were rewards for our foresighted, and pragmatic decisions, to sacrifice our personal interests and sectional sentiments, for the overriding prospects of our Great Party. We are again on the cusp of history, and left with no option, other than collaborating assiduously again, to pursue the collective interest of APC’s stakeholders, across ethnic, religious, and regional stations.

Having led us through two successful elections, and resisted the bait to impose a successor, President Muhammadu Buhari remains the man of the season; a leader who must be remembered, for passing the torch to the choice of the party’s majority, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. My emergence as the running mate of the inimitable Jagaban Borgu, is based on the party’s very forthright assessment of the threats ahead; and I’m most honoured by the consensus of the distinguished stakeholders of our party, to trust me, with representing the nation’s interests, under the leadership of the very sage, the youths all over our country, fondly refer to as “City Boy”, in honour of his cosmopolitan profile.

Our public-spirited Progressive Governors, have also demonstrated why they are the backbone of the party. There can’t be enough words to quantify their sacrifices; we acknowledge the fact, that they are responsible for this spectacular structure, that offers us a palpable electoral advantage, over our opponents. Whatever supremacy we attribute to the APC, is owed to the commitment of our Progressive Governors. Like most of us, they submitted to the supreme interests of the Party, to guarantee our success in the forthcoming elections, and the immensity of these sacrifices, calibrates their wisdom and sensitivity, to the myriad of opponents we are going to face, in 2023. I’m here today, because of their wisdom; and I’m therefore grateful, for their perception of the task ahead, as one that can only be executed, through meticulous collaboration, across board.

Today, I must also testify to the cyclical nature of history. But, like those before us, we must resist the temptation to throw a feast, over an invitation to serve the people. We must always take the past as our finest teacher, one never to be taken for granted. This would guide our staring into tomorrow. I’m not unaware of the difficult political arithmetic that produced this moment, especially the understanding of our great Party’s stakeholders and supporters, across religions, regions, and ethnicities. Their resolve to settle for this ticket, is a testament to the faith they have in us.

This ticket isn’t an imposition; it’s an outcome of democracy at its practical best, and based on the aggregation of the ideas and insights, of our great party’s stakeholders. If this were an unpopular option, as the cast of partisan provocateurs has attempted to paint, there wouldn’t have been the tonnes of goodwill messages, especially from distinguished Christians, from all over the country. This ticket is a Nigerian project, not a sectional agenda, that the frightened camps have been struggling to sensationalize.

I’m sincerely proud of the rational citizens, who view this, as nothing but a pragmatic permutation, to defeat our opponents at the polls, and based on acknowledgment and implementation of the candid perspectives of our Christian brothers and sisters in the APC, who, like us, are bound by the passion for us to retain power, in order to deepen the delivery of unifying and transformative governance, to Nigerians.

About thirty years ago, Nigerians from both sides of the Niger, came together to market the ideals of a ticket like ours. They overlooked the pedestrian attempts to politicize the religious affiliations of the presidential candidate and running mate, and yielded to the message of hope; and the manifesto of prosperity promised them. The MKO Abiola and Babagana Kingibe ticket, defied the stereotype of Nigerians, as hopelessly sectional, and incapable of prioritizing reason over sentiments. That ticket, even though it was opposed by the same agents that doubted its success, has remained the best moment, of our various experiments with democracy, so far.

Also Read: 2023: Why Kashim Shettima will bring massive votes than Any Presidential Running…

This reincarnation of the 30-year-old hope that produced the late MKO Abiola and Babagana Kingibe, came at a time the country is being pushed to the edge of anarchy, by conflict entrepreneurs, in gaudy suits and babanriga. But the overwhelming endorsement of Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, at the APC presidential primaries, by aspirants from the very groups predicted to reject him; and his subsequent election by delegates from the same groups, is a clear message, that Nigerians are beyond the stereotypes of those desperate to tear the people apart.

The goodwill messages that have poured in, since the announcement of my selection, as running mate, to the high-performing Jagaban Borgu, easily underscore the depth of hope that our people are investing, in the ticket. And I do not doubt that the amplitude of this love, across the country, from Abia through to Zamfara, is an assurance that Nigerians are again prepared to choose the competence of their unifying representatives, over any expression of primordial sentiments.

We all witnessed the decisive blows dealt the bigotry dispensed by a hopeless minority, ahead of the APC presidential primaries, last June. The futility of their propaganda, showed that Nigerians aren’t the unthinking robots some are quick to call them. Nigerians are rational beings, with the capability to tell an invidious agenda apart, from sincere concern for them. They are not the uncritical consumers of clickbait and falsehoods, as some of us think they are. They see through the bigots, masquerading as patriots and, very importantly, they know those who represent their interests, even in the quietest and darkest of meeting rooms.

I’m immensely grateful to our great Party, the All Progressives Congress, and it’s perceptive stakeholders who consulted widely, in the painstaking bid, to choose Asiwaju’s running mate, for the 2023 elections. I’m grateful for this opportunity to be a part of this history, to deliver Nigeria to a future defined by fast-evolving technologies, that will propel us towards guaranteed national security, economic boom, youth engagement, mass employment, high-quality education, and, of course, uncompromising national cohesion.

I want to assure our teeming supporters that, in the coming days, we will be rolling out our plans for a greater Nigeria, and pointing towards the bright future that we envisage; and away from the destination of those with nothing, but mudslinging to market, as the reason they deserve to be elected. Such hollow strategies shouldn’t be the ideals of a nation, yearning for an experienced and documented visionary, like Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the wheels.

We will work with commitment for all Nigerians, especially the youths, who represent the overwhelming majority of our population today. They represent our present and future. We give a firm assurance, that no discrimination of any form will arise, from this patriotic alliance for the deepening of Nigeria’s democracy.

Thank you very much for your attention.

Elections Are Not Magic Shows

News

PDP Chieftain urges Nigerians to vote for Atiku in 2027

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

PDP Chieftain urges Nigerians to vote for Atiku in 2027

By: Yahaya Wakili

A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Yobe State, and also a strong supporter of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Wazirin Adamawa, Malam Usman Mohammed Dan Takunne, has urged Nigerians, both Muslims and Christians, to come out en masse to vote for Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 general elections.

Malam Usman Mohammed Dan Takunne is from the Jakusko local government area of Yobe state. In 2023, he trucked from Yobe state to Yola, Adamawa state, barefoot to express his happiness because of the victory of Wazirin Adamawa in the primary election.

“Voting for Atiku Abubakar Wazirin Adamawa as the President of Nigeria is only the solution to the problems that are dividing the country now, and Nigerians are facing the consequences under the APC administration. They’re crippling the country’s economy, he said.

According to Dan Takunne, APC has failed Nigerians, and if Atiku Abubakar becomes the president everybody in Nigeria will enjoy, you will not hear the cases of suffering, hunger, poverty, insecurity, kidnapping, banditry, and other cases of criminality in the country.

“PDP rules this country for 16 years, and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar was the vice president for a good 8 years. Everybody enjoyed this country, both the PDP, APC, and even the other parties, religious leaders, and masses; everybody enjoyed the dividend of democracy, and there is no discrimination in PDP administration, Dan Takunne said.

Dan Takunne maintained that, now that the APC has scattered the country’s economy, life has become worse; therefore, there is a need to continue praying now in this country. Nigerians are in danger; let us sit down and rethink very well and vote for Atiku Abubakar Wazirin Adamawa as a president in 2027 to rescue this country from collapse.

“I am sure the minds of Nigerians have turned now on Atiku Abubakar; everybody has abandoned that man and his party, and everybody is praying for Wazirin Adamawa to come in 2027, and we are praying no doubt he will win, Insha Allah, by the grace of God.” He added.

If Wazirin Adamawa becomes the president in 2027, within six months everything will be normal in this country; our economy will improve drastically, and the issues of insecurity, hardship, poverty, criminal activities, and other suffering of people will become a history in the country.

PDP Chieftain urges Nigerians to vote for Atiku in 2027

Politics

Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

Published

6 days ago

December 17, 2024

News Net Global

Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

By: Dr. James Bwala

The recent conversation between Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima and UK politician Kemi Badenoch highlights the complexity of national identification and the responsibilities associated with heritage. Shettima’s condemnation of Badenoch’s harsh remarks about Nigeria emphasizes an important facet of leadership: the necessity to cultivate pride in one’s origins, particularly among public personalities. His bold proposal that Badenoch “remove the Kemi from her name” if she is not proud of her Nigerian heritage exemplifies a larger debate over leaders’ accountability to their native country.

Contrasting Badenoch’s words with those of Rishi Sunak reinforces Shettima’s claim; Sunak has maintained a positive narrative about his Indian origin, demonstrating the critical role that leaders have in shaping perceptions. While Badenoch affirms her right to discuss personal experiences and criticisms about Nigeria, leaders must strike a balance between open speech and constructive patriotism. This occurrence prompts contemplation on how people in positions of power manage their dual identities while representing their country on global forums.

Shettima not only defends Nigeria’s image but also stimulates a broader discussion about leaders’ roles in creating a balanced narrative that recognizes both challenges and accomplishments within their cultural heritage. In this context, Shettima’s leadership goes beyond criticism; it represents a challenge to leaders to engage in dialogues that not only solve concerns but also celebrate the rich tapestry of their cultural landscapes.

Shettima’s approach emphasizes the necessity of leaders functioning as both critics and ambassadors, inspiring positive change and harmony in their communities. Shettima’s approach urges leaders to accept a dual role in which they may be forthright about difficulties while still serving as guardians of hope and progress for their countries. Shettima emphasizes the importance of leaders constructively addressing their legacy with a feeling of duty that extends beyond personal complaints.

In light of this, Shettima’s remark is a heartbreaking reminder of the power leaders wield in influencing perceptions and instilling national pride. Shettima’s nuanced approach calls for a contemplative and forward-thinking leadership style, one that recognizes the complexity of identity while working to bridge gaps and encourage inclusivity. Shettima’s leadership calls on other leaders to reconsider their roles as cultural guardians capable of influencing global perceptions and fostering a sense of collective identity.

Shettima’s challenge to Badenoch’s narrative not only preserves Nigeria’s integrity but also establishes a precedent for leaders to engage in productive debates that foster understanding and mutual respect. Shettima’s gentle correction of Badenoch highlights the significance of respectful discussion and a shared commitment to truth in creating an environment in which traditional narratives are not only preserved but also embraced. In doing so, Shettima shows the role of a leader who views constructive criticism as a tool for empowerment rather than alienation, arguing for narratives that are both introspective and globally relevant.

Shettima navigates this difficult subject by emphasizing the importance of a balanced depiction of one’s background as well as acknowledging the different experiences that define individual identities. Shettima displays a leadership style that promotes constructive engagement over divisive language by creating an environment conducive to dialogue among various viewpoints.

In response to Badenoch’s statements, Shettima underlined the significance of respecting and enjoying one’s ancestry while engaging in constructive criticism. Shettima underscores the idea that constructive criticism should try to enhance rather than denigrate by drawing parallels with leaders such as Rishi Sunak, who appreciate their past without dismissing it. By contrasting Badenoch’s complaints with Rishi Sunak’s pleasure in his Indian background, Shettima effectively advocates for a balanced discourse that recognizes the complexity of one’s cultural story while calling for development and reform.

While this has created significant disagreement among Nigerians, many support Shettima’s approach. This support is due to a sense of national pride and a desire for constructive criticism rather than disparagement. Shettima’s claim that Badenoch’s words denigrate her Nigerian ancestry resonates with residents who believe that criticism should be based on love and a desire to improve, rather than contempt.

The divergent responses of Shettima and Badenoch illustrate opposing views on national identity. While Badenoch stresses corruption and insecurity in Nigeria, which are unquestionably important issues, many Nigerians believe her approach lacks nuance and fails to recognize the country’s potential. Supporters think that displaying achievements with criticisms promotes a more fair discussion about Nigeria’s future.

Nigerians’ support for Shettima demonstrates a shared desire for unity and pride in their country. Instead of perpetuating negative preconceptions, they argue for an approach that stimulates debate and seeks solutions. In this setting, supporting Shettima is interpreted as opposing external narratives that do not truly reflect Nigeria’s intricacies. Nigerians who support Shettima are not only defending their country’s image but also arguing for a more dignified narrative that embraces Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and growth.

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This collective mood reflects a deeper desire by Nigerians to recover their narrative and exercise control over how their country is seen on a global scale. This shift to a more positive and self-determined narrative is critical for instilling national pride and encouraging residents to actively participate in the country’s progress. This change towards empowerment and self-representation is critical to redefining Nigeria’s position in the international arena.

I believe that this movement is about instilling in Nigerians a sense of ownership and responsibility to address their own difficulties while enjoying their triumphs, rather than simply responding to external criticism. Simultaneously, this support for Shettima’s position demonstrates a rising awareness among Nigerians of the importance of constructively engaging with their country’s difficulties rather than letting external criticism define their identity. This expanding consciousness is evident in public discourse, which is increasingly emphasizing constructive criticism and collaborative attempts to address national concerns.

Indeed, Kemi Badenoch’s recent utterances on Nigeria have raised serious worries about her potential disloyalty to Britain. Badenoch’s criticism of Nigeria, notably her categorization of northern sections as terrorist havens, appears to emphasize political expediency over a thorough understanding of her country. Such disparaging remarks not only alienate a sizable segment of the Nigerian diaspora but also indicate a readiness to abuse her background for personal advantage. This action could imply that if she can easily betray her native nation, she may also discard British ideals when politically expedient.

I am afraid that this pattern of denunciation may reflect a wish to disassociate herself from Nigeria’s poor image and appeal to British voters. However, this raises concerns about her honesty and loyalty. The “double agent dilemma” suggests that voters may interpret her comments as evidence of underlying disloyalty. Ultimately, Badenoch’s rhetoric may indicate that she is more concerned with political ambition than with defending the principles connected with any nation.

Her stance, marked by the strategic denunciation of her roots, could be interpreted as a tactical strategy to strengthen her position in British politics at the expense of true commitment. Such actions may give British residents the impression that her commitment is more motivated by personal ambition than by national loyalty. This view may weaken trust among constituents, who expect constant commitment to their country’s interests.

This loss of trust could have serious consequences for her political future, as people may look for leaders whose commitment is seen as absolute and steadfast. This sense of opportunism may cause voters to wonder whether her commitment is actually to the country she serves or whether it is only for her personal progress in the political scene. This doubt about her motives may lead people to gravitate toward candidates whose commitment to national interests is unquestionable.

* Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

Politics

Kashim Shettima: The personality traits of a leader in Nigeria’s growing democracy.

Published

4 weeks ago

November 25, 2024

News Net Global

Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima

Kashim Shettima: The personality traits of a leader in Nigeria’s growing democracy.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Visionary leadership is crucial for sustainable development in Nigeria’s dynamic and frequently volatile political environment. Nigeria’s vice president, Kashim Shettima, is a well-known example of this trait; his style of leadership has revolutionized his state and the national conversation. In addition to reflecting his own experience, his tenacity, compassion, and strategic vision also speak to Nigerians’ desire for stability and advancement. Shettima’s ability to govern is essential to building a stronger democracy in Nigeria.

Shettima’s strategic vision is essential for negotiating the complicated political environment in Nigeria. His progressive strategy places a strong emphasis on economic development programs and inclusive governance with the goal of empowering all Nigerians. In addition to solving current problems, this forward-thinking approach establishes the groundwork for long-term development within a democratic system.

For Nigeria’s democracy to advance, Kashim Shettima is a prime example of critical leadership attributes, including resiliency, empathy, and strategic vision. Leaders like Shettima will be crucial in crafting a future where growth and inclusivity flourish as the country’s politics continue to change. Adopting these traits can encourage other leaders to do the same in order to build a society that is more democratic.

During his time as Borno State’s governor, Kashim Shettima demonstrated his dedication to implementing smart policies that tackled important problems, including infrastructure and security. He placed a high priority on forming alliances with security organizations and funding regional infrastructure initiatives that promote community resilience in the face of the Boko Haram insurgency. In an area that had previously been devastated by conflict, his proactive actions not only increased safety but also sparked economic growth.

Shettima’s commitment to inclusive governance is a critical component of his leadership. He has built a participatory political atmosphere in which varied perspectives may be heard by actively interacting with numerous stakeholders, including traditional leaders, women’s groups, and youth organizations. This inclusivity has increased social cohesiveness and trust among citizens, causing them to be more invested in government activities aimed at communal progress.

Shettima’s emphasis on youth empowerment distinguishes him as a leader who recognizes the value of leveraging human capital for national development. He combats unemployment while encouraging creativity through projects that empower young people with vocational training and entrepreneurship chances. His vision inspires the younger generation to play an active role in defining Nigeria’s future.

Kashim Shettima’s progressive leadership is a source of hope in Nigeria’s political landscape. He solves urgent difficulties while also laying the framework for long-term stability and progress through strategic policies, inclusive government, and youth empowerment. Embracing such visionary leadership can motivate other leaders in Nigeria to take similar methods that value unity and growth.

By comparing his early governance approach to his more recent methods, we can see how his leadership style has evolved in response to shifting political and social contexts. And I’ll strive to highlight both his approaches’ strengths and faults, finally presenting a full assessment of his leadership effectiveness.

In the early years of his tenure as governor, Kashim Shettima’s leadership was characterized by a strong emphasis on security and stability. Faced with challenges such as insurgency and violence in Borno State, he prioritized military collaboration and community engagement. His proactive measures during this period laid a foundation for restoring peace but also faced criticism for their heavy-handedness.

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As time progressed, Shettima shifted towards developmental policies aimed at rebuilding communities affected by conflict. His initiatives focused on education, infrastructure development, and economic revitalization. This transition marked a significant contrast to his earlier focus on security alone; however, it also revealed challenges in implementation due to bureaucratic hurdles and resource constraints.

Shettima has taken on new political tasks in recent years, indicating that his leadership style has evolved. As he navigates national politics, there is a noticeable move toward coalition building and diplomatic interaction with various groups. This evolution demonstrates an adaptation to larger political processes, but it raises concerns about the consistency of addressing local difficulties vs. national objectives.

Kashim Shettima’s leadership journey includes substantial transformations that reflect both personal progress and external forces. While initially focused on security measures, he has expanded his horizons to include development initiatives and national politics. Comparing these phases illustrates not just the intricacies of good leadership but also areas where more changes are required for long-term progress.

The integrity and accountability of political leaders are essential components of efficient governance. Shettima’s leadership demonstrates a deep dedication to these ideas. Shettima has established himself as a model of integrity and accountability in public service by implementing transparent policies, engaging the community, and providing responsive leadership. Shettima’s devotion to community participation increases his leadership accountability. He constantly opens himself to listen to diverse constituents who want to express their issues and provide comments on policy. This transparency not only empowers citizens but also allows Shettima to make sound judgments as a leader. Maintaining these ideals is critical not only for individual leaders but also for increasing faith in democratic institutions as a whole.

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Kashim Shettima’s ability to connect with varied audiences originates from his compassionate leadership style, effective communication tactics, and dedication to diversity. These attributes not only increase his political appeal but also help to establish a more unified society in Nigeria. As he continues his political career, these ties will be critical in addressing the complicated requirements of a diverse population.

In the face of national challenges, resilience is a quality that defines true leadership. Shettima, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, exemplifies this resilience through his unwavering commitment to addressing the issues facing his constituents. It was argued that Shettima’s ability to remain steadfast amidst adversity not only inspires hope but also fosters unity and progress within the nation.

Shettima’s style of government has been distinguished by proactive initiatives to address major societal challenges. Despite economic uncertainty and security concerns, he has enacted programs that stress job growth and community development. His initiatives have boosted local companies and supplied critical services, displaying his commitment to improving the lives of everyday people.

Furthermore, Shettima’s resiliency is demonstrated by his ability to unite disparate communities inside Nigeria. In times of violence and division, he has always campaigned for discussion and cooperation among different ethnic and religious groups. This dedication to inclusivity not only increases social cohesiveness, but it also fosters a feeling of common purpose in overcoming national issues.

Additionally, Shettima’s personal story of perseverance serves as an inspiration for many Nigerians. Having faced numerous setbacks and overcoming them, he remains undeterred in his quest for positive change. His ability to rise above obstacles resonates with citizens who are grappling with their own struggles, reinforcing the idea that resilience can lead to triumph against all odds.

Shettima’s resilience amidst national challenges highlights the essential qualities of effective leadership. Through his proactive governance, commitment to unity, and inspirational personal journey, he embodies hope for a brighter future in Nigeria. As citizens rally behind leaders like Shettima, who demonstrate unwavering resolve, they pave the way for collective progress and national healing.

* Dr. James Bwala, PhD writes from Abuja

Kashim Shettima: The personality traits of a leader in Nigeria’s growing democracy.