2027: Shettima appeals to Kwara political gladiators to sheathe their swords

By Ahmed Olayinka

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged politicians, particularly political gladiators in Kwara State and beyond, to embrace peaceful politics and sheathe their swords ahead of the 2027 general elections, THE PRIME NEWS reports.

Shettima, who spoke in Ilorin on Wednesday, advised political actors to play politics without bitterness, reminding public office holders that they would spend more of their lives outside political office than in it.

He urged those in positions of authority to serve with conscience, humility and the fear of God, while also finding the courage to forgive one another in the interest of posterity.

“As public office holders, we spend more of our lives outside public offices than we do in public offices. Let us embrace one another. Let us have the courage to serve with humanity.

“We are in power not because of our pedigree, intellect, ability or physical build, but by destiny. What brings us together supersedes what separates us,” he said.

The Vice President called on politicians to unite during the current political season and avoid bitterness, noting that the truth that sets people free is sometimes the same truth they do not want to hear.

Shettima spoke during the turbaning of Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as the Sardauna of Ilorin by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari.

His appeal came amid reported disagreements within the Kwara State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following the party’s governorship primary election, with some aggrieved aspirants forming a group known as the G-15.

THE PRIME NEWS gathered that the Vice President stressed that political power was transient and ultimately determined by God, noting that Allah gives power to whoever He wishes.

He recalled that in 2023, only six of the 19 northern governors, including Governor AbdulRazaq, supported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidential ambition.

According to him, there were rumours at the time that former President Muhammadu Buhari did not want Tinubu to succeed him, popularly expressed in the phrase, “Baba bayan sunshi.”

Shettima said Tinubu eventually overcame the political hurdles and emerged President without hurting anyone, describing the development as an example of the courage and magnanimity politicians should demonstrate ahead of the 2027 elections.

Describing President Tinubu as “a good person and leader” under whom he was pleased to serve as Vice President, Shettima urged political gladiators to emulate the President’s “large heart.”

The turbaning ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including governors Umar Bago of Niger State, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, Umar Radda of Katsina and the Governor of Kebbi State.

Also present were the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli; and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Laoye II.

The governors of Sokoto, Anambra, Nasarawa, Delta, Ondo and Oyo states were represented by their deputies.