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EU, AU, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Election Mission Ask Political Parties to Seek Legal Redress If They Are Not Satisfy With Electoral Process

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3 years ago

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EU, AU, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Election Mission Ask Political Parties to Seek Legal Redress If They Are Not Satisfy With Electoral Process

By: Michael Mike

The European Union, African Union, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Missions to the 2023 Nigeria’s Election have asked any of the presidential candidate or political party that is not satisfied with the electoral process to seek legal redress.

Presenting their preliminary reports on the Presidential/National Assembly Elections, the European Union, African Union, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Missions to the 2023 Nigeria’s Election, while admitting that the election was better than past elections, but asked candidates and their parties to seek legal redress as provider under Nigeria’s law if they are aggrieved.

The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group, former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, while delivering his team’s preliminary assessment of the electoral process at a press conference in Abuja, noted that the Nigeria’s 2023 general elections were “largely peaceful” despite administrative and logistical hurdles at many polling units.

He said: “Nigerians were largely accorded the right to vote,” adding that: “We congratulate all Nigerians for their determination, patience and resilience displayed throughout the electoral process.”

He said as Nigeria waits for the final results, he appealed to all citizens to exercise patience to allow the country’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its staff to conclude the results process peacefully.

Mbeki said: “We call on all those with grievances to address disputes through prescribed legal channels,” insisting that: “The time now is for restraint and continued patience as we await the final results.”

He commended the commitment shown by voters, despite the late arrival of election officials and materials at many polling units, technical issues with biometric identification machines in some cases, and delays with the live results transmission system.

Mbeki also praised the polling officials for conducting their duties diligently, while noting some inconsistencies in procedures, particularly in the positioning of some polling booths which compromised the secrecy of the ballot as well as lack of advance voting for those deployed on election day. 

He expressed that as voting hours extended into the night due to late openings, some polling units were ill-equipped with proper lighting to facilitate voting and counting in the dark.

However considering the challenges, he encouraged the electoral commission to conduct a thorough post-election review of the electoral process to draw lessons and consider setting up appropriate mechanisms to implement the recommendations of observers.

He also noted an improvement with the enactment of a new Electoral Act in 2022, which gave the electoral commission more autonomy, legal backing for the use of electronic accreditation of voters and frameworks for the inclusion of people with disabilities in the elections, among other things.

He noted the low percentage of women candidates, but however said the group was impressed by the “vibrant participation” of young people, including as polling officials, in the elections.

He noted that Commonwealth observers were in Benue, Edo, Kano, Lagos, Ondo, Rivers and Sokoto states as well as the Federal Capital Territory.

The European Union Observer Mission, on its part, urged Nigerians to rely on the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) for results of the presidential and National Assembly polls, insisting that the social media is not a credible source.

EU gave this advice on Monday, while delivery its preliminary report on the election.

According to Barry Andrew,  EU Chief Observer and Head of EU EOM, “Social media was actively used by political actors as a campaign tool. However, the platforms were misused to spread harmful content, including disinformation on key electoral processes; the measures the
platforms took to protect electoral integrity were insufficient.

“Misleading information also came from 
political actors and contributed to a blurred information environment for voters.”

He however commended the media and the Civil Society Organisation for joining forces to fact check.  

He said, “Online and offline media joined forces with civil society and fact checkers to safeguard the integrity of the preelection information environment. Realtime fact checking of gubernatorial and other contestants’debates strived to hold candidates accountable, while various formats of voter information, raised voter awareness and helped to counter electoral insecurity, complementing INEC efforts.”

The EU Preliminary report presented by Andrew, observed that the electoral process lacked transparency, it also showed that the process operational failures, which reduced trust in the process. 

EU also said despite the confidence reposed in INEC by stakeholders, the electoral body’s lack of efficient planning in critical stages and effective public communication reduced trust in the process, including on election day.

Andrew said, “On 25 February, Nigerians went to the polls in highly anticipated presidential and National Assembly 
elections that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) kept on schedule despite a volatile
and challenging environment.

“Fundamental freedoms of assembly and movement were largely respected, yet the full enjoyment of the latter was impeded by insufficient planning, insecurity and the prevailing Naira and fuel shortages.

“Abuse of incumbency by various political office holders distorted the playing
field and there were widespread allegations of vote buying. 

“The EU EOM is continuing its observation of the ongoing collation and tabulation of 
results throughout the country.

“INEC’s operational capacity was hampered by the ongoing fuel and Naira shortage. Insecurity prevented 
it from accessing some Local Government Areas (LGAs), notably in the South. Attacks on INEC premises,  including just days before polling, hindered preparations in affected areas, while instilling fear in voters. 

“Overall, stakeholders had expressed confidence in INEC’s independence, professionalism, and voter 
information efforts, but this decreased ahead of elections. 

“INEC lacked efficient planning and transparency during critical stages of the electoral process, while on election day trust in INEC was seen to further 
reduce due to delayed polling processes and information gaps related to much anticipated access to results
on its Results Viewing Portal (IReV).

“In the lead-up to elections, the widely welcomed Electoral Act 2022 introduced measures aimed at building stakeholder trust, however leaving some important gaps in terms of accountability and INEC’s power to enforce the law. 

“Weak points include a lack of INEC empowerment to enforce sanctions for 
electoral offences and breaches of campaign finance rules. Positively, INEC benefited from more timely 
financingthan for previous contests. Other new provisions also aimed to enhance transparency of results.

“The introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the IReV for the 2023 elections was perceived as an important step to ensure the integrity and credibility of elections. 

“However, delayed training of technical personnel, an inadequate mock testing exercise, and a lack of public information on the election technologies diminished expectations and left room for speculation and uncertainty.

“During the early stages of collation, presidential result forms from polling units were not displayed on the 
IReV, while Senate and House of Representative results were slowly published.

“Presidential election result 
forms started to be uploaded after 10 pm on election day, raising concerns.

On her part, EU Parliament Head of Delegation, Ms. Evin Incir expressed concern that less than 10 percent of candidates were women. 

Incir therefore urged the next government and Parliament to look into the manifestos of the main political parties to include affirmative action, such as quotas. 

2023 Elections: AU, ECOWAS Observers task INEC on credible conclusions.

Meanwhile, the African Union (AU), and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Observation Missions deployed to the Nigerian general elections wants the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to improve on the encountrered challenges for credible conclusions of the electoral process.

The Head of African Union Observation Mission and Former President of Kenya, Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta , together with Leader of the ECOWAS Observer Mission and Former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bi Koroma, made the call in Abuja during a joint preliminary briefing on the elections.

The head of the observation missions urged Nigerians to remain calm until the announcement of the final result from INEC, cautioning against disinformation and fake news especially on social media platforms that would incite post-election violence.

Responding to questions from journalists, Mr. Koroma said the AU and EU Observation Missions is urging INEC to improve on its communications strategies to avoid any form of speculations, disinformation and fake news.

The Leader of the ECOWAS delegation said that beyond Observation Mission, it was in Nigeria alongside the AU Mission on a diplomacy engagement to ensure a peaceful transition.

The Head of AU Observation Mission, Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta while also also fielding questions from journalists urged INEC to adress all challenges encountered so that the process can be brought to a credible and peaceful conclusion.

President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray appreciated the AU and ECOWAS Observation Missions who came on the invitation of the ECOWAS Commissions for delivering on their mandate.

He also thanked the Media for the good coverage of the elections especially at a time where fake news have dominated the media space.

Touray said that “ECOWAS will indeed follow results closely and continue to reach out to all stakeholders within the framework of preventive diplomacy.”

EU, AU, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Election Mission Ask Political Parties to Seek Legal Redress If They Are Not Satisfy With Electoral Process

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END NEEDLESS SPECULATIONS ON APC 2027 PRESIDENTIAL RUNNING MATE

Published

3 days ago

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January 26, 2026

By

PRESS STATEMENT

END NEEDLESS SPECULATIONS ON APC 2027 PRESIDENTIAL RUNNING MATE

Our attention has been drawn to growing media frenzy about possible replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima as the running mate to President Bola Tinubu under the platform of our great Party ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

While these stories have been mostly subtle, they recently assumed a new dimension when names of specific individuals were touted as possible replacement for Vice President Shettima.

Our Party states in categorical terms that the stories are purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless.

We urge media organizations to refrain from lending their platforms to rumour-peddlers and mischievous “news sources” of questionable provenance whose only intention is to promote discord and confusion in the polity.

Under our laws and electoral regulations, the ban on political activities remains in force. At this time, our Party remains focused on supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in delivering the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and entrenching its bold reforms that are now steadily transforming the economy, building prosperity, and uplifting the living conditions of our people.

We call on our ministers, senior government and Party officials to avoid, wittingly or unwittingly, stoking needless speculations, and to focus on their primary duty of diligent service to government and our Party, and bolster the success and achievements of President Tinubu, our inimitable and visionary leader.

Signed:

Felix Morka, CON
National Publicity Secretary
All Progressives Congress (APC)

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Nobody is replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima. Tinubu affirms he remains the best and envisions a strategic partnership for Nigeria’s future.

Published

4 days ago

on

January 25, 2026

By

VP KASHIM SHETTIMA

Nobody is replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima. Tinubu affirms he remains the best and envisions a strategic partnership for Nigeria’s future.

By: Dr. James Bwala

In the complex arena of Nigerian politics, the partnership between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima stands as a formidable alliance, one that promises to steer the nation through its myriad challenges. This the president himself has said times and again. As the duo embarks on the journey of actualizing the Renewed Hope Agenda, it becomes increasingly clear that Vice President Shettima is not just a figurehead but rather an indispensable partner in this endeavor. President Tinubu’s assertion that “Vice President Kashim Shettima remains the best partner” sends a strong message for the bench debate that nobody is replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima. This is not merely an affirmation of loyalty but a testament to the strategic importance Shettima holds in the administration. The reasons for underpinning this partnership also highlight Shettima’s pivotal role during the 2023 election campaign, his unique qualifications, and the significant contributions he will continue to make towards Nigeria’s aspirations for renewed hope.

At the core of their partnership lies a history of shared vision and purpose. Vice President Kashim Shettima played a vital role in President Tinubu’s electoral success during the 2023 presidential elections. In a fiercely competitive landscape, marked by intense campaigns and public scrutiny, Shettima emerged as a key strategist—an indispensable battle axe in Tinubu’s political arsenal. His background as the former governor of Borno State provided him with invaluable experience in governance and crisis management, essential qualities that resonate deeply with the current socio-political climate of Nigeria. By choosing Shettima as his running mate, Tinubu not only secured a political ally but also brought on board a leader who understands the pressing issues facing Nigeria, particularly in security and humanitarian matters.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-tinubu-apc-leaders-must-reject-divisive-tactics-ahead-of-2027/

The question of leadership in Nigeria cannot be divorced from the country’s ongoing security challenges. The insurgency in the Northeast, where Shettima served as governor during the peak of Boko Haram’s activities, has transformed him into a figure of resilience and determination. His tenure was marked by commendable efforts to tackle insecurity and rehabilitate communities torn apart by conflict. Shettima’s firsthand experience with these issues equips him with insights that are crucial for shaping Nigeria’s security policies as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Kashim Shettima’s commitment to educational reform and economic revitalization further enhances his value within the administration. His initiatives have always transcended mere governance; they reflect a deep-seated belief in the power of education as a catalyst for social change. As vice president, Shettima undoubtedly advocated for policies that prioritize educational access while simultaneously addressing the economic disparities that many Nigerians face. His understanding of local sentiments and development challenges has enabled him to effectively contribute to broader national policies that aim to uplift communities across the country.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-tinubu-apc-leaders-must-reject-divisive-tactics-ahead-of-2027/

As “Jagoran” of Arewa today, his strategic role in governance, Vice President Shettima’s presence serves to unify diverse segments of Nigeria’s populace. His roots in the North and his reputation for inclusiveness speak volumes about his capacity to bridge regional divides. This ability to engage with various stakeholders is crucial as Nigeria seeks to foster national cohesion amid its diversity. With Shettima, Tinubu has fortified his administration with a leader who can appeal to different ethnicities and religious affiliations, thereby enhancing the government’s legitimacy and acceptance across the country.

Amidst speculations regarding potential shifts in the political landscape as the next election approaches, it remains critical to emphasize that vice presidents often play transformative roles in governance—roles that extend beyond the confines of traditional expectations. Shettima’s abilities and experiences position him perfectly to transcend the limitations often imposed on the vice presidency. His proactive approach in the administration signifies a departure from the norm and sets a precedent for future leaders in similar positions. By affirming that Shettima will not be replaced, President Tinubu reinforces the notion that effective governance requires collaborative efforts anchored in trust and mutual respect.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-tinubu-apc-leaders-must-reject-divisive-tactics-ahead-of-2027/

It is also important to consider the implications of political continuity and stability in Nigeria’s ever-evolving political framework. The 2027 elections will present new challenges and opportunities for the Tinubu-Shettima administration. Shettima’s role as a steadfast partner ensures that the initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda are not simply transient political promises but rather enduring commitments to the Nigerian people. His familiarity with the administration’s objectives will facilitate seamless transitions in policy implementation, continuity in governance, and sustained momentum toward achieving the overarching goals of national development.

In advocating for Shettima’s continued partnership, one cannot overlook the significance of loyalty and reliability in political alliances. The foundation of any successful administration lies in the trust placed in its leadership team. Shettima has proven to be not just a reliable partner but also a courageous leader who navigated turbulent political waters alongside Tinubu. Their shared experiences in the run-up to the 2023 elections foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support that will undoubtedly serve them well in the years to come.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-tinubu-apc-leaders-must-reject-divisive-tactics-ahead-of-2027/

Critics may argue that the political environment warrants periodic changes in leadership to inject fresh ideas. While innovation is essential for progress, it is equally critical to recognize that substantial transformation requires consistency in vision and execution. Shettima embodies both qualities, rendering him an irreplaceable figure as Nigeria journeys towards revitalization. His adept understanding of the challenges at hand, coupled with a commitment to innovative solutions, positions him as an indispensable asset within the Tinubu administration.

The global context surrounding Nigeria adds an additional layer of complexity to domestic governance. With international markets fluctuating and geopolitical tensions rising, having a seasoned leader like Shettima by Tinubu’s side is invaluable. His experience in navigating international partnerships and fostering economic collaborations will be instrumental in positioning Nigeria favorably on the world stage. As the duo embraces the challenges of the future, their combined strengths will offer Nigeria the resilience needed to thrive amidst uncertainty.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-tinubu-apc-leaders-must-reject-divisive-tactics-ahead-of-2027/

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration that “Shettima is the best” is a reminder that nobody is replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima. This reflects a commitment to stability, unity, and progressive governance in Nigeria. Kashim Shettima is not just a political ally; he is a key player in realizing the aspirations encapsulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda. From his strategic contributions during the 2023 elections to his expertise in governance and crisis management, Shettima’s role is essential, especially as Nigeria prepares for the challenges ahead come 2027.

This partnership, forged in the crucible of electoral battles and mutual respect, promises to guide Nigeria towards a more prosperous future. As we stand at the crossroads of opportunity and challenge, the continuation of this alliance is not merely advantageous—it is fundamental to Nigeria’s quest for renewal and transformation. Vice President Kashim Shettima stands strong, tall, and like the iroko tree. Unshakable!! 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nobody is replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima. Tinubu affirms he remains the best and envisions a strategic partnership for Nigeria’s future.

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VP Kashim Shettima: Tinubu, APC leaders must reject divisive tactics ahead of 2027.

Published

1 week ago

on

January 20, 2026

By

Vice President Kashim Shettima


VP Kashim Shettima: Tinubu, APC leaders must reject divisive tactics ahead of 2027.

By: Dr. James Bwala

In the intricate landscape of Nigerian politics, few figures have evoked as much scrutiny and discourse as Vice President Kashim Shettima. His role in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has become a focal point of both support and dissent, leading many to call for his replacement. Those against Shettima often cite no reason to back their claims. These are individuals who lack loyalty as a key benchmark for leadership. They are often individuals who did not stand beside President Tinubu during his arduous journey to the presidency. But they feel they could now take center stage in deciding for Tinubu his next move towards 2027.

They never understood who Kashim Shettima was and who he is now as Vice President of Nigeria. While this perspective warrants a deeper examination, it reveals an underlying current of discord among political factions and, more importantly, misreads the dynamics of governance and loyalty. To understand why calls for Shettima’s replacement could be ultimately misguided, one must first recognize the value of stability and continuity within the ranks of leadership. The relationship between a president and vice president is critical; it must be rooted in trust and mutual understanding. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-leadership-loyalty-and-when-truth-laughs-last/

Vice President Shettima has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the administration’s vision, even amid challenges. His background as a former governor of Borno State provides him with unique insights into governance, particularly in addressing security issues that plague regions like northeast Nigeria.

Those advocating for his ousting seem to overlook the fact that political maneuvers often serve self-interest rather than the collective aspirations of the citizenry. Many of the names being floated as potential successors were not part of President Tinubu’s inner circle during his campaign. This raises questions: what qualifications do these individuals possess that make them more suited for the vice presidency than Shettima? Is their allegiance more than a matter of convenience? It is alarming to witness individuals who once stood on the sidelines suddenly positioning themselves as viable contenders when the political tide appears favorable.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-leadership-loyalty-and-when-truth-laughs-last/

The tactics employed by those pushing for a change reflect a troubling trend of undermining a sitting administration from within. By attempting to sideline Shettima at gatherings and shaping narratives intended to discredit him, these dissenters inadvertently undermine the unity that is pivotal for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Such actions can erode the party’s strength as they sow division and foster an environment of mistrust. These are not the behaviors of loyalists; rather, they are characteristic of opportunists seeking personal aggrandizement at the expense of collective goals.

Critically, we also must consider President Tinubu’s position in all of this. He has shown steadfastness in his leadership style, often prioritizing the long-term vision of his administration over transient political gamesmanship. President Tinubu is unlikely to succumb to pressures from factions seeking to manipulate his choices, especially from among those who have displayed questionable loyalty. His leadership ethos appears to prioritize unity and strategic forward-thinking, suggesting that he values collaboration over division.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-leadership-loyalty-and-when-truth-laughs-last/

The current political climate requires deliberate engagement and cooperation among all stakeholders in the APC. President Tinubu’s commitment to governance will not be swayed by the antics of those seeking to destabilize his administration from within. To strengthen the party and fulfill its mandate, it is imperative that leaders focus on fostering an environment of inclusivity and shared purpose rather than resorting to backbiting and discord.

Kashim Shettima’s appointment as vice president should also be viewed through the lens of meritocracy rather than mere political allegiance. He emerged as a candidate uniquely equipped to contribute to national governance, possessing vital experience and a nuanced understanding of the socio-political challenges confronting Nigeria today. His investment in dialogue around security reform and economic recovery strategies underscores his dedication to not just the party but the nation at large.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/vp-kashim-shettima-leadership-loyalty-and-when-truth-laughs-last/

There is an inherent risk in the proposed approach to leadership transitions within the APC. By promoting individuals based on perceived loyalty or personal connections rather than demonstrated competence, the party risks entrenching mediocrity. The nation’s challenges require leaders who can engage robustly with complex issues—leaders like Shettima, who understand the stakes and act decisively in the nation’s best interest.

The calls for Vice President Kashim Shettima’s replacement unveil a deeper societal malaise predicated on factionalism and opportunism rather than a genuine concern for effective governance. The refusal to appreciate the merits of stability, expertise, and continuous support for an experienced vice president diminishes the potential for collaborative success. It is essential for the APC and its leaders, including President Tinubu, to reject such divisive tactics and reaffirm their commitment to a cohesive governance structure. In doing so, they can build a stronger foundation for Nigeria’s future, one that is devoid of petty infighting and focused squarely on the needs of the Nigerian people. The quest for true leadership in Nigeria demands that unity, loyalty, and competence be prioritized over personal ambition and the politics of exclusion.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

VP Kashim Shettima: Tinubu, APC leaders must reject divisive tactics ahead of 2027.

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