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UNDERSTANDING SHETTIMA ON OSINBAJO AND LAWAN

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Kashim Shettima, the best option for APC

UNDERSTANDING SHETTIMA ON OSINBAJO AND LAWAN

By: Inuwa Bwala

Those who play around with the English word, risk being misunderstood by those who tend to translate their expressions from their literal meanings. 

This explains why it is often difficult to understand poets when they write or to appreciate literary artists when they use slangs, idiomatic or figurative phrases in conveying messages.

This perhaps was  the position Senator Kashim Shettima found himself in, when he made those remarks on Television, about the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, which are now being turned around to haunt him.

Shettima had come out to explain that, he meant no harm in his remarks, and coul not have been as impolite as he is being interpreted to be. To him, he was trying to make a figurative comparison of politics and less controversial trades, to the effect that, a hawker is a more dignified person that those who engage in competitive contests, seeking to lead.

I watched the clips over and over, trying to grasp what the Distinguished Senator was trying to make, and I feel, those phrases were actually figurative and not intended to denigrate the two personalities mentioned.

As a journalist, I understood where my friend Seun was driving Shettima to in his line of questioning and I felt, those who tried to impute meanings into Shettima’s responses were somehow being uncharitable to him.

Although not a poet nor a trained literary artists, it is true that, Senator Kashim Shettima is literarily endowed and plays around with the English language even more than some of those trained in that art.

His reference to popcorn selling or groundnut merchant in my understanding were meant to explain the public perceptions about people not cut out to play politics, rather to engage in some other vocations.

No matter how impolite he might have wanted to be, he could not have used that expression to contest their surface interpretations.

In describing the Vice President as a Goodman nice person, and too nice to occupy position of leadership, Kashim was trying to say Osinbajo as a gentleman, is better suited for a more friendly and persuasive vocation and not the competitive and rather murkier politics, that he is involved.

Also Read: Owo’s deaths mounted: Blood on the altar, a sacrifice…

Shettima in my understanding, knowing he often uses such figurative expressions to explain other situations, was trying to say, that people like his principal are known to have been in similar fights and may be ready to do it again: dirty as it seems, while  the likes of Osinbajo are strangers to the dirty brand of Nigerian politics.

I know that,his remarks were a mere coincidence with what Asiwaju Bola Ahmed was quoted as having said about the president, Muhammadu Buhari, but in seasons of politics, people ascribe deregatory meanings to hitherto innocent views.

As for the remarks about the Senate President, Shettima was referring to the public perceptions about the ordinary northerner in the south, which portrays Lawan as just another merchant of a commodity commonly found in the north.

Shettima has personally explained how he holds the duo of Osinbajo and Lawan, and I  am sure, handlers of the two personalities will explain the true imports of Shettima’s remarks.

My personal advice is that, people should not try to wedge a nail in hitherto cordial relationships for sheer political scores, as this may tend to make our politics even murkier.

UNDERSTANDING SHETTIMA ON OSINBAJO AND LAWAN

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I’ll run inclusive governance, sustain Fintiri’s achievements, if elected governor- Galadima

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I’ll run inclusive governance, sustain Fintiri’s achievements, if elected governor- Galadima

Alhaji Tijjani Galadima, a governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State has pledged to be fair, just while ensuring people-centred leadership, if elected governor in the 2027 general elections.

Galadima who is the immediate past Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) gave the assurance during a stakeholders’ engagement in Yola.

He commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing the administration’s policies as impactful on national development.

According to him, his administration and that of Tinubu would work together and continue to impact positively across the grassroots.

Galadima further lauded Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri for his visionary leadership adding that his achievements have created a strong foundation for growth.

He added that his administration would also focus on continuity, unity, inclusive governance, stressing that no segment of the state would be left behind under his leadership.

Galadima thanked party members and supporters for their encouragement and loyalty, assuring them that their confidence in him would not be misplaced.

Earlier, in his address, Kevin Peter, Galadima’s campaign Director-General said, Galadima is qualified to be the next Governor of Adamawa because of his experience and leadership capacity needed to move the state forward.

He called on the party delegates and the electorates to support Galadima’s ambition to succeed.

In their separate remarks, Prof. Maxwell Gidado and Lilian Steven, party Stalwarts expressed optimism that Galadima would consolidate on the achievements of the present administration if elected governor.

They said Galadima is a leader with the vision and competence to deliver quality governance and improve the living conditions of citizens across the state.

I’ll run inclusive governance, sustain Fintiri’s achievements, if elected governor- Galadima

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2027: Between President Tinubu And Vice President Kashim Shettima

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2027: Between President Tinubu And Vice President Kashim Shettima

2027: Between President Tinubu And Vice President Kashim Shettima

By: Dr. James Bwala

In the realm of political discourse, especially during the critical periods leading up to general elections, rumors and speculative reports often emerge, attempting to sway public perception and influence outcomes. One such instance is the recent report by the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers on May 17, 2026, suggesting intensified efforts within the ruling establishment to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima amid internal political consultations. This narrative, which paints a picture of discord and impending change in the vice-presidential slot, is not only baseless but also misleading. In reality, Vice President Kashim Shettima remains a steadfast pillar in the administration’s strategy for the 2027 general elections, working in unison with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver victory for the All Progressive Congress (APC). 

The unfounded claims surrounding the so-called “Shettima issue” are the new kite the enemies of this partnership between President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are trying to sell in their continuous attempts to dismantle the progress already achieved and reaffirm their continuous lack of ideas over what made Tinubu and Shettima’s partnership thick. While they are entitled to their own beliefs and strategies, the renewed vision and partnership between the president and vice president for a stronger, unified Nigeria stand tall and shine constantly in position like a northern star. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

While they failed in their imaginations, we build. The context and motivations behind the propagation of such misleading reports are not far-fetched. Nigerian politics, characterized by fierce competition and complex alliances, is often marred by misinformation aimed at destabilizing governing coalitions. Reports insinuating a potential replacement of Vice President Shettima seemingly emerge from rival political interests who seek to fracture the APC’s front in the crucial northern regions where Shettima wields significant influence. By casting doubt on the vice president’s position, these reports aim to sow confusion among supporters and create fissures within the party’s grassroots structure. However, looking closely at the facts and recent developments reveals no basis for these rumors.

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s role in the current administration has been instrumental—not only as a vice president but, more importantly, as a strategic leader who mobilizes support across the North. His roots and connections in this region have proven invaluable in consolidating the party’s influence and outreach, especially now. Since assuming office, Shettima has consistently demonstrated loyalty to President Tinubu’s administration and an unwavering commitment to the broader national agenda. The assertion that internal consultations are targeting his removal contradicts observable realities and official statements from both the presidency and the APC leadership, all of which underscore unity and forward momentum.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

The idea that high-level consultations and behind-the-scenes political maneuvers are underway to replace Shettima ignores the transparent and collaborative nature of the Tinubu-Shettima partnership. Both leaders have publicly reiterated their dedication to working together towards the success of the upcoming 2027 elections. Their collaboration is rooted not only in political expediency but also in a shared vision of governance, economic development, and national cohesion. This synergy has been evident in various policy implementations and campaigns aimed at fostering growth and stability, dispelling any notion that their alliance is fragile or conditional.

The vice president’s focus remains resolute on positioning the APC for electoral success. His active engagement with party stakeholders, community leaders, and electorates across the northern geopolitical zones confirms his central role in the campaign apparatus. Efforts to undermine this position are not only premature but counterproductive. It would be illogical for the ruling party to disrupt a winning formula, particularly when Shettima’s involvement is critical to maintaining the party’s stronghold in strategically vital states. This consistency in leadership and messaging helps sustain public confidence and project an image of stability, both domestically and internationally.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has consciously prioritized the cultivation of a leadership team grounded in trust, competence, and mutual respect. The strength of the partnership between Tinubu and Shettima lies in their complementary attributes—Tinubu’s political acumen and national stature combined with Shettima’s grassroots connections and regional influence form a formidable alliance. This relationship is not merely transactional but built on a shared commitment to delivering on the promises of a new Nigeria—a nation defined by inclusivity, prosperity, and democratic consolidation.

Critics and opponents who propagate the “Shettima issue” narrative must consider the potential consequences of their actions. Spreading falsehoods undermines not only the individuals involved but also the democratic process itself. Political maturity dictates that differences and challenges be addressed through dialogue and institutional mechanisms rather than through sensationalist media narratives or unsubstantiated claims. The APC, under the leadership of Tinubu and Shettima, exemplifies this maturity by focusing on policy priorities and voter engagement rather than succumbing to divisive distractions.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

Importantly, the renewed hope for a stronger Nigeria encapsulated in the Tinubu-Shettima vision is one that transcends individual positions or political convenience. It is a collective aspiration for national growth, peace, and stability that resonates deeply with the citizenry. Their joint campaign promises reflect commitments to infrastructural development, job creation, security enhancement, and education reform—areas that directly affect the lives of millions of Nigerians. To suggest instability within the leadership based on unfounded reports is to disregard the tangible progress and strategic planning underway.

The report by the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers alleging internal political turmoil regarding Vice President Kashim Shettima is not only inaccurate but dangerously misleading. Such narratives serve no constructive purpose and only detract from the significant work being done by the ruling administration to steer Nigeria towards a prosperous future. Vice President Kashim Shettima remains fully engaged and indispensable in the campaign to secure the APC’s victory in the upcoming elections. His partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is solid, visionary, and crucial to the realization of a new Nigeria. Those anticipating a change in this dynamic have already miscalculated the strength of this alliance and the determination of the leaders involved. The administration’s focus remains clear: to build a Nigeria that offers hope, opportunity, and progress for all its citizens.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: Between President Tinubu And Vice President Kashim Shettima

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Yobe APC guber candidate calls for unity, urges Tumsa and others to withdraw

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Yobe APC guber candidate calls for unity, urges Tumsa and others to withdraw

By: Yahaya Wakili

The All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate for Yobe state, Alhaji Baba Mallam Wali Fcan, mni, has called on the three remaining aspirants, Barr. Kashim Musa Tumsah, Engr. Mai Hajja, and Hon. Bashir Shariff Machina, to withdraw and come to unite and work as one family to move Yobe state forward.

Baba Mallam Wali made the call yesterday in Nguru town while thousands of APC supporters turned out en masse to welcome him since he became the gubernatorial candidate of the party. He said, “I am a native of Nguru, and since the restoration of democracy in 1999, this zone has never gotten such an opportunity, not even the deputy governor.”

He maintained that, before there were G-6, three had already withdrawn, and the first aspirant to step down was the former Senate President, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan GCON; secondly, Lawan Kolo; thirdly, the former inspector general of police, Usman Baba Alkali; and today, we thank God, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai stepped down, respectively.

Therefore, the 3 remaining aspirants, Kashim Tumsah, Engr. Mai Hajja, and Bashir Shariff Machina, I call on them; let them step down, come, and unite ourselves to work together to move Yobe State forward, adding that Yobe remains one indivisible political family under the APC.

The gubernatorial candidate hailed Senator Musa Mustapha, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan GCON, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai, Lawan Kolo, and former IGP Usman Baba Alkali for their maturity, patriotism, and commitment to party unity following their withdrawal from the 2027 governorship race.

“His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, is a strong politician; his political career has been marked by vast experience, national influence, and remarkable achievements. He is a national chairman and national secretary of our great party, APC, and up to now, he is a great and strong politician. I worked with him as the secretary to the government for 7 years; therefore, I learned so many things from him.

According to Wali, His Excellency Senator Ibrahim Geidam, FCAE, Minister of Police Affairs and the leader of Yobe State politics, exhibited a rare blend of leadership and pragmatic governance and is a masterclass in dedicated politics and public service. Therefore, I worked with these leaders, and I learned so many things from them.

Yobe APC guber candidate calls for unity, urges Tumsa and others to withdraw

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