RismadarVoice Reporters, April 30, 2026
As political activities gather momentum across Nigeria ahead of forthcoming party primaries, Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged party members to embrace unity, moderation, and discipline, warning against divisions that could weaken electoral prospects.
In a reflective message marking the onset of the political season, Shettima described the surge in consultations, lobbying, and grassroots mobilisation as evidence that Nigeria’s democracy remains vibrant and participatory.
He said across wards, local government areas, and party structures, aspirants have intensified engagements with stakeholders, signalling the return of competitive politics.
However, the Vice President cautioned that such periods often come with risks, particularly the tendency to interpret political competition as hostility.
“A political party is not a battlefield. It is a family,” he stated, urging members to avoid actions that could destabilise the party’s internal cohesion.
Shettima warned against the influence of misinformation, internal suspicion, and external manipulation, noting that political actors must resist attempts to create discord within party ranks. According to him, narratives suggesting marginalisation or exclusion are often tools designed to inflame tensions.
He emphasised that leadership requires restraint and clarity of purpose, especially at a time when unity will determine electoral success.
“The real challenge begins after the primaries,” he said, stressing that while candidates may emerge through internal contests, only a united party can secure victory at the general elections.
Addressing party leadership, the Vice President called for fairness in the conduct of primaries, urging that aspirants be treated with dignity and that processes remain transparent.
He acknowledged that endorsements and preferences are inherent in politics but warned against allowing them to undermine credibility.
“Aspirants must be given equal respect, and delegates must act without fear,” he noted, adding that unresolved grievances could weaken the party ahead of national polls.
Shettima also directed his message to aspirants and their supporters, urging them to exercise restraint regardless of outcomes. He noted that political ambition should not override collective interest, warning that internal conflicts could erode the party’s strength.
“Politics is a long road,” he said, encouraging patience and loyalty among those who may not secure tickets.
He further stressed that the behaviour of political actors during internal contests is closely watched by the electorate, adding that maturity in handling defeat is a key test of leadership.
Referencing the leadership style of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima pointed to coalition-building and political accommodation as essential ingredients for democratic success.
He urged party members to draw lessons from such experience, particularly in managing internal differences without undermining shared goals.
Beyond party politics, the Vice President reminded stakeholders that governance remains the ultimate objective. He cautioned against reducing politics to personal ambition, noting that citizens expect tangible outcomes in areas such as security, education, and economic development.
“Politics is a service vehicle,” he said, emphasising the need to prioritise national interest over internal rivalries.
In his message, Shettima called on party leaders, aspirants, and supporters to lower tensions and maintain focus on the broader electoral contest.
“Contest, but do not destroy. Disagree, but do not defame,” he urged.
