2027: Shettima Warns Politicians Against Disunity, Urges Restraint

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on political actors to exercise restraint and prioritise unity as consultations for the 2027 general elections gain momentum.

In a statement posted on his social media pages on Thursday, Shettima warned against actions that could weaken party structures, noting that while competition is normal, it should not be mistaken for hostility.

“The political season is upon us again, and with it comes the familiar fever of democracy. But every season of politics also comes with its temptations. The temptation to mistake disagreement for betrayal, competition for enmity, preference for exclusion, and media interpretation for truth,” he said.

The Vice President stressed that political parties should be treated as families, not battlefields, adding that the roof must never be pulled down because one room appears warmer than another.

He cautioned party members against being swayed by divisive narratives, misinformation, and political manipulation, describing such tactics as familiar tricks meant to provoke suspicion and turn comrades into adversaries.

Shettima noted that while primaries will produce candidates, the general election will test the strength of unity, insisting that only a united party can deliver victory.

He urged party leaders to act with fairness, treat aspirants with dignity, and ensure transparent processes that command respect even from those who lose.

The Vice President advised aspirants and their supporters to manage disappointment maturely, warning that no ambition is worth destroying the platform that nurtured it.

He also reminded political stakeholders that Nigerians are watching their conduct closely, adding that a politician who destroys his party over a lost ticket may destroy a state over a lost argument.

Referencing President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style, Shettima said democracy thrives on accommodation, persuasion, resilience, and coalition-building.

He concluded by urging politicians to contest without destroying, disagree without defaming, and close ranks after primaries, because the real battle will not be among themselves.