Tensions flared at a high-level meeting of All Progressives Congress stakeholders in the North-East on Sunday after a perceived slight against Vice-President Kashim Shettima triggered outrage among party loyalists.

The meeting, held in Gombe State, brought together key figures of the ruling party from across the region, including ministers, lawmakers, governors, and national party leaders. APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, led a delegation of top officials to the gathering.

Trouble began when Mustapha Salihu, the APC’s National Vice Chairman (North-East), publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term.

However, in his address, Salihu made no mention of Vice-President Shettima, himself a prominent son of the North-East.

The omission did not go unnoticed. As soon as Salihu concluded his remarks, aggrieved delegates began hurling insults and threatening physical confrontation.

Security operatives quickly intervened and escorted him out of the venue to prevent further escalation.

Efforts to douse the rising tension were made by Deputy National Chairman (North), Alhaji Bukar Dalori, who addressed the gathering and issued a joint endorsement of both President Tinubu and Vice-President Shettima for a second term.

Despite the reconciliatory move, the charged atmosphere persisted, and Dalori too had to be escorted out of the hall under security protection.

According to an eyewitness, Danburam Danladi stated that the incident underscores the deep sensitivity surrounding regional representation, “and loyalty within the APC as internal jockeying intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections,” he said.

Meanwhile, Yobe State Governor, Mai Buni lauded the party leadership for the momentum saying, “Let me start by appreciating the National leadership of the party for creating a platform at the zonal level, which has provided the party with an opportunity to take stock and analyze the achievements and challenges of the party as a mid-term self assessment.”

He disclosed that the meeting indicates the party’s commitment to promoting good governance, service delivery, and building unity in the six geo-political zones for the party to consolidate its strength and leadership in Nigeria’s political space.

“From the first Republic till date, the North East sub-region has remained a strong political bloc in Nigeria’s political history.

“We are blessed with great politicians such as the Late Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister, Sir Kashim Ibrahim, Alh. Muhammadu Ribadu, Malam Sa’ad Zungur, Alhaji Jalo Waziri, and Alhaji. Ibrahim Waziri, the advocate of Politics Without Bitterness, to mention but a few.

“Today, from the zone, we proudly have the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Kashim Shettima GCON, the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and of course, your humble selves my dear compatriots, the Executive Governors, former Governors, distinguished Senators and members of the National and State Assemblies, Party leaders and elders,and other key stakeholders, youth and women, and our large supporters making the zone more stronger,” he added.

He urged stakeholders to cherish the political legacy saying that they cannot afford to truncate or let it vanish during their time.

Buni added, “We must therefore, strive to continue supporting APC, Nigeria’s ruling party, and the national government under the able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as the APC-led administrations in Yobe, Gombe and Adamawa states to succeed and make our great party proud.

“I want to seize this opportunity to congratulate us over APC’s ten years of leadership as Nigeria’s ruling party, and Africa’s largest political party.

“However, it is important to note that this achievement is not an ordinary coincidence.

“It is a product of careful and strategic planning, focused leadership and giving members a sense of belonging.

“Therefore, it is important for us to continue promoting the values that unite us, address the few wranglings, give party supporters a sense of belonging, and improve on our reward system.”