Shettima Reveals Tinubu's Shocking Post-Election Forgiveness of Northern Rivals

Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly urged politicians in Kwara State to embrace reconciliation and unity following political contests, emphasizing the importance of setting aside differences once elections are concluded. Shettima made this significant appeal in Ilorin during the turbaning ceremony of Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate, a title conferred by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari. His remarks come amidst ongoing political realignments and preparations for the 2027 general elections, where he stressed the need to prevent election-related disagreements from fostering lasting divisions and bitterness among political actors.

Highlighting a powerful example of leadership and forgiveness, Vice President Shettima revealed that President Bola Tinubu reconciled with and forgave northern governors who did not support his presidential ambition during the intensely contested 2023 general election. Shettima recounted that despite facing significant opposition and limited support from only six out of the nineteen northern states, Tinubu persevered. He also noted the challenging political narrative, symbolized by the slogan “Baba bayan sunshi,” which suggested a lack of support from former President Muhammadu Buhari for Tinubu's succession bid. Nevertheless, after his victory, President Tinubu chose the path of reconciliation over grudges, hugging and forgiving those who had worked against him, an act Shettima presented as a hallmark of a good leader.

The Vice President called upon Kwara State politicians, particularly those embroiled in current contests for political offices and internal party disagreements—such as the All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter's G-15 pressure group protesting primary election outcomes—to emulate President Tinubu's magnanimous spirit. Shettima reminded them that political power is inherently temporary and should be wielded with humility, a spirit of service, and an understanding that public office is often a matter of destiny rather than solely intellect, pedigree, or personal ability. He asserted that the commonalities among individuals should always supersede their differences.

Furthermore, Shettima took the opportunity to defend the current administration's handling of Nigeria’s economic challenges. He acknowledged that President Tinubu inherited a struggling economy but chose to focus on implementing crucial reforms rather than dwelling on the shortcomings of previous administrations. The Vice President expressed confidence that the economic team's efforts were successfully turning the economy around, proclaiming that "Nigeria is better for it." He lauded President Tinubu as a "decent leader" who places trust in his team members and affirmed his pride in serving as the President’s deputy.

Earlier in his visit to Ilorin, Vice President Shettima participated in the inauguration of the Kwara State Revenue House, situated on Ahmadu Bello Way, and a garment factory established by the state government. He extended his congratulations to Governor AbdulRazaq on receiving the traditional title of Sardauna of Ilorin, describing it as a fitting honor that reinforces the governor’s family’s long-standing connection with the Ilorin Emirate. Shettima concluded by urging Governor AbdulRazaq to persist in his efforts towards the development of Kwara State and the advancement of the emirate.