Politics
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
Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno
By: Michael Mike
Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the All Progressives Congress primary election for the House of Representatives across the state.
Zulum gave the commendation on Saturday shortly after supervising the APC primary election for the Gubio, Kaga and Magumeri Federal Constituency held in Magumeri town.
Hundreds of party supporters from the three local government areas gathered at the venue to welcome the governor and APC officials overseeing the exercise.
Speaking with journalists after the primary, Zulum said the process was conducted in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the constitution of the APC, which allows aspirants to adopt consensus arrangements.
“We are here to witness the primary election in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution, which allows for consensus arrangements among aspirants,” the governor stated.
He explained that although three aspirants initially indicated interest in contesting for the party’s House of Representatives ticket, two later withdrew in support of the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Usman Zannah.
“We have three contestants vying for the position of the House of Representatives, but fortunately, under the consensus arrangement as enshrined in the constitution of our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), two of the aspirants stepped down for the incumbent member, Hon. Usman Zannah,” he said.
According to the governor, party members and stakeholders from the constituency affirmed their support for the consensus candidate during the exercise.
Zulum congratulated Hon. Zannah on his emergence and praised the aspirants who stepped down — Hon. Shettima Shehu and Alhaji Mohammed Sanda Ngamdu — describing their action as a demonstration of unity, sacrifice and political maturity.
“I want to extend my congratulations to the candidate and the others who stepped down for him,” he said. “I also want to express my appreciation to all APC supporters and the people of Borno State for ensuring a peaceful voting process.”
The governor stressed that the consensus arrangement adopted by the party was voluntary and not designed to deny any aspirant the opportunity to contest.
“Under the consensus arrangement, the government of Borno State and the party have never taken a decision to stop anybody from contesting,” he explained. “Consensus is a voluntary option, and anybody who does not wish to go for a consensus election has the right to participate in a direct primary.”
Chairman of the APC Primary Elections Committee for Gubio, Kaga and Magumeri Federal Constituency, Hon. Yuguda Saleh Vungas, also confirmed that party stakeholders agreed on consensus as the mode of primary election.
He commended Governor Zulum for creating an enabling environment for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the exercise.
Through a voice vote, APC members from the three local government areas unanimously affirmed Hon. Usman Zannah as the party’s consensus candidate for the House of Representatives seat.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission and APC national headquarters monitored the exercise.
Governor Zulum was accompanied by the APC consensus gubernatorial candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijani, and Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe.
Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno
Politics
APC 2027: Will consensus enforce anti-party as a result of collapses in internal democracy?
APC 2027: Will consensus enforce anti-party as a result of collapses in internal democracy?
By: Dr. James Bwala
The All Progressives Congress (APC) stands at a critical crossroads as it grapples with the ramifications of its recent consensus candidate selection process. The emergence of a so-called “consensus” candidate, rather than being a symbol of unity, has instead revealed deep fractures within the party’s internal democratic structures. The widespread discontent among aspirants who feel sidelined and silenced exposes a troubling trend: the collapse of internal democracy in the APC, which threatens to unleash anti-party sentiments that could have disastrous consequences in the 2027 general elections.
The APC’s current trajectory—marked by opaque decision-making and authoritarian imposition—will inevitably engender internal rebellion unless urgent, meaningful reforms are undertaken to restore genuine participatory democracy within the party.
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To begin with, internal democracy is the lifeblood of any political party, particularly one that claims to govern while representing diverse constituencies. Democracy within a party ensures that aspirants for various offices have a fair chance to contest based on merit, vision, and popular support. It fosters legitimacy, accountability, and cohesion, enabling the party to present a unified front during elections. Unfortunately, the APC’s recent handling of the consensus candidate arrangement starkly contrasts with these principles. Instead of a transparent and inclusive consultation process, many aspirants recount being coerced into signing undertakings to accept predetermined outcomes—decisions orchestrated by the party leadership without genuine input from rank-and-file members.
Such practices betray the foundational democratic ethos the APC purports to uphold. One cannot help but view the forced acquiescence and symbolic “consensus” as an endorsement of dictatorship cloaked in a veneer of unity. This top-down imposition disenfranchises the very individuals who are supposed to embody and promote the party’s ideals. The covert nature of communications—aspirants resorting to WhatsApp conversations to express their grievances out of fear of surveillance—underscores a climate of mistrust and intimidation. A healthy political party thrives on open dialogue; a party that compels its members into silence through fear is fundamentally broken.
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The consequences of this erosion of internal democracy are neither abstract nor distant. A party whose members feel betrayed or marginalized risks fracturing from within. The APC’s hundreds, if not thousands, of disgruntled aspirants represent a reservoir of latent anti-party sentiment that, if left unaddressed, will manifest during the high-stakes 2027 general elections. These aggrieved members might either disengage entirely, reducing voter turnout and weakening the party’s grassroots machinery, or worse, sabotage the party from within by supporting opposition candidates, defecting to rival parties, or fomenting unrest.
Historical precedents within Nigerian politics illustrate that when internal democratic practices collapse, the resulting alienation among party members translates directly into electoral defeats. Political parties that prioritize authoritarian control over inclusivity invariably lose the confidence of their base. The APC, as the ruling party, must understand that its legitimacy does not rest solely on incumbency or executive power but fundamentally on the grassroots support nurtured through honest and participative political processes.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
The justification frequently offered by party elites for such consensus arrangements—that they are necessary for “unity” and to “avoid divisive primaries”—is deeply flawed. True unity arises from mutual respect and equitable competition, not from imposed decisions that silence dissent. Primaries may be contentious but are essential to test ideas, vet candidates, and build momentum. By circumventing primaries and opting for handpicked consensus candidates without buy-in, the party betrays its members’ trust and stifles political innovation.
It is crucial to recognize that internal democracy is not merely an ideological luxury but a practical necessity for the APC’s long-term sustainability. In the absence of credible internal mechanisms for selecting candidates, the party’s leadership risks alienating vital cadres, eroding morale, and undermining the collective commitment that fuels election mobilization. The current state, described by aspirants as “dictatorship at its peak,” may secure short-term compliance but sacrifices enduring loyalty. Such loyalty cannot be bought with patronage or enforced with intimidation; it must be nurtured through respect, transparency, and fairness.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/political-party-system-why-are-we-members-if-few-will-decide-our-fate-through-consensus/
To avert the looming crisis, the APC must embark on comprehensive reforms that reestablish internal democracy. First, there must be a clear, public, and binding framework for candidate selection that ensures fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness. Party elders and leaders should act as facilitators rather than dictators, enabling aspirants to compete on an equal footing. Second, grievance mechanisms must be strengthened to allow aspirants to voice concerns without fear of reprisal, ensuring that disputes are resolved internally rather than festering underground. Third, digital transparency tools can be employed to document all stages of candidate selection, building trust and verifying that processes are respected.
Additionally, the party leadership should engage in sincere dialogue with disgruntled aspirants, recognizing their value and addressing their concerns through concrete concessions and roles within the party structure. Reconciliation efforts must go beyond mere public relations exercises and demonstrate true commitment to inclusivity.
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The APC faces a defining moment that demands urgent attention to its internal democratic deficits. The narrative of consensus candidacy, as currently practiced, signals a dangerous slide into authoritarianism that alienates vital segments of party membership. Without immediate and genuine reforms, the party risks sowing the seeds of anti-party rebellion that could severely weaken its electoral prospects in 2027 and beyond.
Internal democracy is not simply a procedural formality—it is the foundation upon which the APC’s legitimacy and future success depend. To uphold its role as Nigeria’s leading political force, the APC must restore democratic norms within its ranks or face the consequences of a divided, disenfranchised membership turning against it from within. Failure to do so will not only compromise its electoral fortunes but also undermine the very democratic ideals it professes to champion.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
APC 2027: Will consensus enforce anti-party as a result of collapses in internal democracy?
Political Party System: Why Are We Members; If Few Will Decide Our Fate Through Consensus?
By: Dr. James Bwala
These are the very questions some party membership was asking regarding happenings within party politics in Nigeria. And my thoughts on this are that, in democratic societies, political parties are meant to serve as vehicles for representation, participation, and accountability. They provide a platform through which citizens express their political preferences, compete for public office, and influence governance. However, within many political party systems—most notably that of Nigeria—the concept of consensus has evolved into a mechanism that concentrates power in the hands of a few, disenfranchising the vast majority of party members. This piece contends that the entrenched practice of consensus among party elites is not only undemocratic but also actively undermines the principles of participatory democracy, fostering corruption and dictatorship reminiscent of military regimes. To safeguard democracy’s true essence, it is imperative to critically revisit the consensus ideology and reinstitute the rights and voices of all party members in political decision-making processes.
At its core, democracy demands inclusion, transparency, and equality. Every card-carrying member of a political party should have an equal say in choosing candidates who represent their aspirations and values. Yet, the prevailing consensus model within the Nigerian political party system transforms these ideals into hollow formalities. Instead of empowering the collective membership, consensus becomes a tool wielded by party hierarchies—comprising national chairpersons, governors, powerful financiers, and other influential figures—to select candidates and dictate policies behind closed doors. This top-down approach obliterates internal party democracy and turns membership into a mere symbolic gesture devoid of real participation.
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The justification often given for consensus is the desire to avoid divisive primaries that could jeopardize party unity and electoral success. Proponents argue that consensual agreements prevent bitter factionalism, conserve resources, and project a united front to the electorate. While superficially plausible, this rationale is disingenuous when the process becomes exclusive and opaque, with decisions forged in secret meetings rather than through the broad consultation of party members. The so-called unity achieved is artificial; it masks deep resentment among sidelined aspirants and suppresses the natural contest of ideas fundamental to democratic evolution.
By restricting candidate selection to a handful of party elites, consensus fosters a culture of patronage and favoritism. Individuals who align themselves with dominant factions or offer financial inducements gain preferential treatment, while competent and popular candidates lacking elite connections are marginalized. This incentivizes corrupt practices as ambitious politicians seek to buy influence or broker deals with kingmakers. The consequences spill over into governance, where elected officials, indebted to their selectors rather than accountable to the people, prioritize personal or factional interests over public good. Hence, consensus does not merely distort internal party democracy—it also saps the quality and responsiveness of leadership at all levels of government.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/zulum-leadership-humility-and-humanity/
Indeed, the grip of consensus on candidate nomination echoes the authoritarianism it purportedly rejects. When decisions rest with a small clique operating without transparency or checks, the political party morphs into a microcosm of dictatorship. The voices of ordinary members are silenced; dissent is quashed under the guise of maintaining peace and order within the party. This stifling atmosphere discourages grassroots mobilization and political activism, eroding the vibrancy and dynamism necessary for democratic renewal. In effect, the consensus phenomenon creates a political monopoly, where power is recycled among an elite few, entrenching oligarchic control reminiscent of Nigeria’s past military regimes.
It is critical to emphasize that genuine consensus in democratic contexts differs fundamentally from the elite-driven version prevalent in many Nigerian parties. Authentic consensus arises from deliberation, negotiation, and compromise among broad-based stakeholders, each empowered to voice their views and influence outcomes equitably. It is neither a prearranged dictate nor the suppression of opposition. For democracy to thrive within political parties, institutions and culture must promote open contestation, respect for internal rules, and mechanisms for accountability. This includes transparent and competitive primaries, equal access to party resources by aspirants, and independent oversight bodies to enforce fairness.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/zulum-leadership-humility-and-humanity/
Reforming the consensus practice requires both structural and attitudinal changes. Party constitutions should explicitly enshrine the rights of members to participate meaningfully in candidate selection and policy formulation. Enforcement agencies and electoral commissions must rigorously police internal party elections, sanctioning violations such as imposed candidacies and manipulation of delegate lists. Civil society organizations and the media also have a vital role in exposing anti-democratic practices and educating the public on their rights within parties. Above all, political leaders must embrace a culture of inclusivity, recognizing that sustainable electoral success and legitimacy stem from empowering their membership base rather than manipulating it.
Also, technology offers promising avenues to enhance democratic participation. Digital platforms can facilitate wider consultation and voting processes, reducing the leverage of traditional gatekeepers and expanding grassroots engagement. Social media and mobile communication provide channels for members to hold leaders accountable and organize collective actions. When harnessed properly, these tools can disrupt entrenched power structures and democratize party decision-making.
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Some may argue that the chaos and fragmentation often witnessed during open primaries justify the status quo of elite consensus. However, this perspective overlooks the long-term costs of excluding the majority from decision-making. While competitive elections within parties may pose challenges, they foster political education, enhance representativeness, and strengthen legitimacy. The alternative is a sterile political environment dominated by elites disconnected from the electorate, increasing cynicism and apathy among citizens. Thus, preserving the integrity and vitality of democracy necessitates embracing participatory norms even if they introduce complexity into the process.
On this argument I still stand that the consensus model currently practiced within many political parties, particularly in Nigeria, constitutes a deliberate and damaging subversion of democratic principles. By concentrating decision-making in the hands of a few powerful insiders, it disenfranchises the broader membership, breeds corruption, and nurtures authoritarian tendencies that undermine the very foundations of democracy. The health of democratic governance hinges on restoring genuine participatory mechanisms that empower all members to choose their representatives freely and fairly. Revisiting and reforming the consensus ideology is not merely desirable but essential if democracy is to fulfill its promise of government by the people, for the people. Political parties must cease to be arenas of elite manipulation and instead become true vehicles of popular will—only then can democracy transcend rhetoric and become an authentic lived reality.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Political Party System: Why Are We Members; If Few Will Decide Our Fate Through Consensus?
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