Opinion
Presidential Poll: Kashim Shettima As Atiku, Obi’s Achilles Heel
By Stanley Nkwocha
From years to months, months to weeks, and now in just a matter of days, the nation will head to the polls to elect the next president of Nigeria. Needless to state that President Muhammadu Buhari, with the constitution of his transition team headed by Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha – like the Americans would say- ‘knows what time it is’.
That the change in the naira denomination along with the cash swap policy of the Buhari administration, coupled with the attendant legal action before the Supreme Court, has distorted the mood about the 2023 general election, attempting to, in very clear terms, almost derail it, is to say the least in the mildest way.
While the federal government struggled to compete with electoral campaigns in terms of attention, it is now clear that come Saturday, the ballots would speak succintly – loud enough to make a definite and emphatic statement on the resolve of Nigerians to protect their democratic rights. Clearly, a new leadership for the country is in the offing!
I make bold to say that of the front runners in this election, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has pulled the most robust, technical, populist and indeed all-encompassing campaign. With a unique style of campaign, his lieutenants have left no stone unturned in marketing his vision and ideas as contained in his 80-page manifesto.
While critics of his age and the Muslim- Muslim ticket made lame issue about his eligibility at the initial stage, Asiwaju’s dexterity, vibrancy, energy and frankness made capacity, sacrifice, experience, vision and political will to top the discourse ahead of this election. Truth be told, Tinubu has indeed acquitted himself, especially in terms of capacity, straightforwardness and consistency of direction in the run up to the elections. He is undoubtedly not just the front runner but the favorite to win.
But beyond the rhetoric, permutations and political scheming about how this election would be won and lost is the content of the character of one man who has proven that he could as well bring class intelligence, unique political wizardry, experience and understanding of exceptional leadership qualities to the fore with the choice of his running mate. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s choice of Senator Kashim Shettima as vice presidential candidate has paid off. The former Borno governor is the one puzzle that is set to undo Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party ( LP) in this presidential election.
To have a clear shot at the presidency, it is my opinion that every presidential candidate must secure his base. While it can be argued that Tinubu has his South West base in the kitty and Peter Obi, another strong candidate, has the South East as a stronghold, PDP’s Atiku Abubakar sadly cannot lay claim to his North East base where Kashim Shettima’s strong footing in the region has left him helpless in the shadow of his own goal post.
While the former vice president will struggle to win his home state of Adamawa, he cannot beat his chest and say he has edge in neighboring states of Taraba, Gombe and Bauchi States. Borno and Yobe States are completely out of the the question. The two states with huge voter turnouts are under Kashim Shettima’s political enclave.
Shettima’s political doggedness has seen him move into Gombe, Taraba and Bauchi States ‘quietly’ resolving and reconciling powerful political figures in the region. It can be safely be said that these moves have left a distraught Atiku with a bloody nose in the home front. The depletion of PDP’s support in its hitherto political bases in the South East and South South further leaves the PDP candidate in a fix; hence his desperation for votes as he scavenges in the North West which ordinarily would have been his pathway to electoral victory.
But as if punching it in the bags of the opposition presidential candidates is not enough, Shettima’s reach, hard work, eloquence, sophistry, vibrancy and highly cosmopolitan nature has continually ridiculed other vice presidential candidates, proving to be the last nail on the coffin of other presidential candidates.
Of the prominent vice presidential candidates in this election, only Yusuf Datti hails from North West. Sadly, in terms of prominence, the LP vice presidential candidate has become a mere shadow of him’s boisterous self, surrendering the region to the exploits, visits, nexus and seeming political genius of Shettima. This has prompted not a few pundits to assert that not even his ward would Datti win on election day, not to talk of his local government.
I dare to say that were the G5 governors’ crisis inherent in the APC, Shettima would have been the man to fix it. Sadly, PDP’s vice presidential candidate, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, lost the capacity to contemplate a resolution of the crisis as he was a major dramatis personae in the unresolved issues that has rocked the PDP in this coming election.
When as governor of Borno State and chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum Shettima travelled to all the South East states reassuring the Igbos of their safety when the Northern Youths Forum led by Yerima Shettima gave Igbos in the North the infamous quit notice, he was demonstrating a leadership skill that sold him to Nigerians as a leader and bridge builder who is quite rare in this part of the globe.
Recently, just after the APC presidential campaign in Kano, while his principal headed to Edo State for the next phase of campaigns, Kashim Shettima stayed put in Kano for three days reconciling all factions and ensuring that all stakeholders at this crucial stage are all on the same page ahead of the polls. Needless to state that all issues in the state are today a thing of the past, with Kano ready to vote enmasse for the APC.
Juxtaposing this with Atiku’s VP candidate, Okowa, under whose nose intra party crisis has continued to unsettle its Delta, Edo, Abia, Rivers, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti and Lagos States chapters ahead the poll, it may well be safe to conclude that Atiku would go green with envy over Asiwaju’s successes. Ditto for Obi and Kwankwaso when their vice presidential candidates’ efforts are also calibrated.
Of importance too is the identification and deployment of local and cultural politicking. Of all the vice presidential candidates none has transversed singly to all states in their domains like Shettima. Unlike Atiku’s Okowa who is rarely seen campaigning or embarking on critical visits in the South for local campaigns, or even Obi’s Datti up North, only Kashim Shettima boasts of visiting virtually every traditional ruler up North, paying respects and soliciting for their support. If every politics is local, then Shettima depicts a perfect understanding of this.
Shettima’s recent exclusive media adverts and mobilisations for his principal shows how far a vice presidential candidate could go in firming up support for his principal.
Alexander the Great’s statement, “I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion”, might have been used over time in the depiction of strength in leadership and character. However, it will once more come into play on Saturday as the days wind down to hours, minutes and eventually to seconds.
One established fact remains that Shettima’s massive involvement and presence in the presidential elections has been a huge win for the presidential aspiration of Bola Tinubu. It can be said that in the choice of Kashim Shettima, the presidential candidate of the APC struck gold.
Nkwocha, a member of the Public Affairs Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, wrote in from Abuja.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio on Saturday said the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended by the Senate for six months, traumatised him and others.
Akpabio had come under heavy criticism following the sanction handed out to the lawmaker.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, cautioned the Senate against making the political atmosphere toxic for women.
Major opposition parties in the country have also expressed outrage over the manner in which the complaint was handled.
But Akpabio maintained his innocence, saying none of what she alleged was true.
Speaking at an event to commemorate International Women’s Day, Akpabio raised concerns that he was merely her latest victim, saying previous allegations by Natasha had turned out to be false.
He said, ‘’It is only yesterday that I realised that what we are talking about only happened when there was a change of seat. That is when hell was let loose, and all sorts of allegations came up, only after the change of seat and change of committee, which my Senators know to happen from time to time.
“This is said to have happened on December 8, a day before my birthday, which was celebrated in the Stadium in 2023. So from the 8th of December 2023, I never heard, my wife never heard, no Nigerian ever heard, even the husband never heard any issue of sexual harassment until her committee was changed and then her seat was changed.
“Have you ever wondered about the trauma caused by that same woman on the other people she has accused in the past? None has been proven so far. Do you even wonder about the trauma this caused to the 10th Senate and the image of the Senate with all these useless allegations? I have refrained myself from making a statement.
“Look at these beautiful women. They have come across me so many times. Have I ever harassed any one of you? Or is the person thinking that you are not beautiful?”
By Abdullahi O Haruna Haruspice
The appointment of Dr. Fashagba Femi Paul as the Provost of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, is a masterstroke in academic leadership. With an impressive track record in academia, administration, and professional excellence, he is undoubtedly the right person to lead the institution into a new era of transformation. His wealth of experience and outstanding credentials make him well-suited for the task ahead, one that requires vision, strategic planning, and a relentless commitment to excellence.
Dr. Fashagba’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Having served as the Director of the Academic Planning Unit at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, he demonstrated exceptional administrative acumen, successfully leading the accreditation and reaccreditation of over thirty academic programs—an achievement unmatched in the history of the institution. His tenure as Dean of Students’ Affairs further highlighted his ability to foster a student-friendly academic environment while ensuring discipline and quality education. In addition to his administrative competence, Dr. Fashagba is a well-respected scholar, researcher, and mentor, with numerous academic publications and conference presentations to his name. As a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) and a distinguished member of the Chartered Institute of Finance and Control of Nigeria (CIFCN), he embodies the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Now at the helm of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, Dr. Fashagba must harness his expertise to drive meaningful reforms. The institution, like many teacher-training colleges in Nigeria, requires structural, academic, and administrative revitalization to remain competitive. One of the key areas of focus should be academic excellence and accreditation. Strengthening the college’s accreditation status by ensuring that all programs meet national and global standards is essential. A research-driven environment must be fostered, encouraging both lecturers and students to engage in innovative academic work. Additionally, modern pedagogical tools must be introduced to align with contemporary teacher education.
Beyond academics, institutional development and infrastructure must be prioritized. Improving physical facilities, including classrooms, hostels, and ICT centers, will significantly enhance the learning environment. Seeking partnerships with government and private sector stakeholders to attract funding and grants should also be a focal point. Establishing a robust e-learning system to complement conventional learning methods will further modernize the institution and expand its reach.
To build a well-rounded institution, the welfare of students and staff must also be taken into account. Policies that ensure a conducive learning and teaching environment should be implemented, while continuous professional development programs must be introduced for lecturers to keep them updated on modern teaching methodologies. Encouraging student participation in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service programs will also help in shaping well-rounded graduates who are equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.
As an astute accountant, Dr. Fashagba is well-positioned to enhance financial management and transparency within the college. Prudent financial practices, revenue-generating initiatives, and reduced reliance on government subventions will be key to ensuring the financial stability of the institution. At the same time, fostering strong ties between the college and the local community will be instrumental in driving mutual growth. Building strategic alliances with education-based NGOs, international bodies, and government agencies will further enhance institutional development and open up new opportunities for students and faculty members.
The appointment of Dr. Fashagba Femi Paul is not just another administrative change—it is a call to action. The weight of expectation is enormous, and the demand for impact is immediate. As he takes over the reins, he must bring on board the right strategies, policies, and personnel to reposition the college for greatness. The people of Kogi State, the academic community, and the students of Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa, look forward to a progressive, transformative, and prosperous tenure. With his sterling credentials, vast experience, and stoic commitment to education, there is no doubt that Dr. Fashagba will leave an indelible mark on the institution. Now is the time to deliver, and the future starts today.
Perfectly musing
BY Musa Ilallah
For the people of Hadejia emirate in the present jigawa state, their hope and optimism remains high now more than ever before that their 42 year old struggle to get a state of their own will soon see the light of the day. The movement had so far submitted a request for the creation of Hadejia state in 1982, 1991, 1994, 1996, 2009, and 2021.
This optimism beams its light and hinges its hope for 2 reasons.
First came the opener when the Jigawa North East Senator, Ambassador Ahmad Abdulhamid Malam Madori on the 25th day of February 2025 sponsored a bill for an act to create Hadejia state out of Jigawa state on the floor of the senate.
The bill, which sought to alter the Constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria1999 (Cap.C23), is presently awaiting further legislative action.
Second, the House of Representatives committee on the review of the 1999 constitution opened it’s door wide open and allowed all interested applicant seeking new states to be created in their domains to submit their request on or before the 16th of March, 2025.
Taking this opportunity with all the seriousness it deserves, the steering committee led by a former Commissioner in the old Kano state, Alhaji Musa Shuaibu had an interaction with the Chairman of the national Constitution review Committee and also the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Barau I. Jibrin, to press home the demand for the creation of Hadejia state and thereafter solicits his support for the noble cause.
Consequently, the Chair of the movement for the creation.of Hadejia state, Musa Shuaibu was at the National Assembly on Tuesday March 4th 2025 where he formally presented the demand.
Accompanied by Senator Malam Madori, 2 of the 3 members of the House of Representatives from the area, some members of the state House of assembly and some representatives of LGCs.
Also present were the Representatives of the State Governor, Naannabi Ahmad, Falakin Hadejia and Chairman of the state Civil service commission; Emir of Hadejia’s Representative and Galadiman Hadejia, Usman Abdulaziz, Representatives of 8 local government councils, representatives of State assembly members; members of the house of representatives, Dr Abubakar Fulata and Makki Yanleman; prominent sons and daughters and also some members of the steering committee of the movement led by elder Dr (Arch) Aminu Kano
According to Musa Shuaibu, in addition to the present 8 local government areas that make up the proposed state, the area has presently submitted request to expand the LGAs to more than 12. The present Senatorial zone has Hadejia, Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Kaugama, Malam Madori, Guri, Birniwa and Kiri Kasamna LGAs.
Some of the potentials that seem to work in favour of the demand for Hadejia state include an approximately 700, 000 hectares of total landmass of which 75% is arable for all year round farming.
Others include the economic viability, active and enterprising human resource, utilities and infrastructure, electricity via a 132 KVA, potable water, ethanol renewable energy resource, forests and wildlife. Others include industry and commerce, tourism and rich cultural heritage among others.
Formally receiving the request for the creation of Hadejia state, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Honourable Tajuddeen Abbas in his office, stated that he is 100% in support of the movement and gave an unflinching committment to get the aspiration through.
At the Senate, the Clerk to the Senate committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution, Innocent Mobere received the memorandum on behalf of the chairman and also promised to present the request to the whole house committee.
Meanwhile, Senator Ambassador Ahmad Malam Madori also during a 2day public hearing organised by the Senate committee on health on a bill to consider the creation of a Federal Medical Centre , Hadejia, had appealed to all and sundry to make the proposal a reality.
All eyes are.now on deck to see how fast the National Assembly will fast track the creation of more states and LGCs in the country for its growth and development.
Musa Ilallah, a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. He can be reached at musahk123@yahoo.com