By Dr James Bwala—
For years, Vice President Kashim Shettima’s restrained demeanour concealed a realm of unspoken challenges, particularly those emanating from within his home state, Borno. These challenges were not merely political skirmishes but deep-seated pains inflicted by individuals who seemingly despised his meteoric rise and harboured intentions to undermine his position. The recent disclosure by Shettima about attempts to malign his reputation and sow distrust between him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not just a personal catharsis but a clarion call to confront internal sabotage and restore integrity in leadership dynamics.
The gravity of Shettima’s revelation can scarcely be overstated. Speaking at the launch of the autobiography of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, entitled ‘My Life of Duty and Allegiance’, Vice President Shettima broke his silence about a sinister plot that sought to paint him as a threat to the presidency. According to Shettima, scarcely three months after their swearing-in, certain unnamed individuals—whom he identified only as being from Borno State—conveyed fabricated stories to President Tinubu, alleging that he (Shettima) was plotting to kill the president and seize power through diabolical means. This mendacious narrative was reportedly so persuasive to some that it warranted the president’s personal intervention and dismay.
What makes this scenario particularly disconcerting is the source of these falsehoods—people presumed to be from Shettima’s own state, presumably individuals driven by jealousy, fear or political ambition. The reported admonition against ‘Shettima’s gift of clothes’ to the president illustrates not only how trivialised and personalised political rivalry can become but also how deep-rooted and destructive such divisions are among compatriots. For these rivals to weaponise such symbols against Shettima underscores the extent to which envy and political deceit have festered.
However, President Tinubu’s response to these allegations epitomises prudent leadership and measured judgment. He reportedly told Shettima to ‘sit down’, dismissing the accusations on logical grounds—reminding sceptics that the garments in question had been gifted to him during their aspirant days, well before any shared candidacy. Moreover, Tinubu’s choice to wear the same clothes afterwards, quipping that he was ‘not a fetish’, metaphorically affirmed his rejection of superstition, paranoia and unfounded suspicions. This stance portrays Tinubu as a leader unwilling to indulge in baseless fears, instead placing trust in his vice president and dismissing malicious rumours. It also implicitly reproaches those who peddled falsehoods and betrayed their own for petty gains.
The significance of this disclosure lies not merely in the exposure of political intrigue but in its wider implications for Nigerian politics and governance. First, it highlights the endemic problem of internal sabotage within political factions, where, rather than collective progress, infighting and factionalism reign supreme. When individuals undermine themselves, especially in high offices, the resultant discord weakens governance and distracts from the pressing needs of the populace. Vice President Shettima’s patience in maintaining silence over these years suggests a commitment to unity and professionalism despite provocation. His eventual decision to speak out signals a threshold crossed—a necessity to clear the air and reclaim his narrative.
Second, Shettima’s revelation serves as a potent reminder of the pernicious effects of rumour-mongering and misinformation in political affairs. False narratives can have devastating consequences—not only tarnishing reputations but also eroding trust essential for effective administration. The fact that some persons repeatedly sought to poison the relationship between the president and vice president demonstrates an alarming readiness to destabilise the highest levels of government for selfish ends. This incident should galvanise political actors to foster transparency, accountability and open communication, not only to promote mutual trust but also to serve as a bulwark against malicious interference.
Third, this episode underscores the emotional and psychological toll borne by leaders—particularly those from marginalised or conflict-ridden regions like Borno. Vice President Shettima’s ordeal reflects the additional burden carried by public figures who must navigate complex terrains of regional loyalty, personal ambition and national service. The pain expressed and the relief felt upon finally unveiling these truths suggest an empathetic dimension to leadership often overlooked. For citizens of Borno and beyond, this moment may cultivate greater understanding of the human challenges underpinning political resilience and courage.
Furthermore, the selective silence regarding the individuals behind the smear campaign, while perhaps strategic, does not diminish the force of Shettima’s message. Notably, two of the key perpetrators have reportedly fallen out with the president, signalling consequences for betrayal, while the remaining figure purportedly maintains some distance, having grasped that President Tinubu is not inclined to tolerate deception. This natural fallout reinforces the principle that in governance, integrity ultimately outlasts duplicity. By refraining from naming names, Shettima focused the discourse on the broader issue—the undermining of trust and loyalty—rather than fuelling personal vendettas.
The vice president’s candid exposition also invites a reassessment of leadership culture in contemporary Nigerian politics. It fosters an environment where truth and frankness are valued over subterfuge and backdoor politicking. In an era characterised by rapid information dissemination and public scrutiny, leaders must embrace openness, build resilient relationships and reject the corrosive influence of misinformation. Shettima’s example, though borne out of adversity, models a constructive approach: confronting challenges with dignity, seeking reconciliation through truth, and prioritising allegiance to the nation above personal grievances.
From a broader perspective, this episode encapsulates the challenges facing Nigeria as it seeks stability and progress amid diverse ethnic, regional and political complexities. Borno State itself has endured significant turmoil due to insurgency and socio-economic hardship, making the role of its representatives crucial in national cohesion. The divisiveness within Borno’s political elite, therefore, becomes not only a local issue but also a matter of national concern. Shettima’s elevation to the vice presidency symbolises hope and inclusion for the region, yet the internal resistance he faces reveals the persistent obstacles to unity. Addressing these fissures is imperative to harnessing the full potential of leadership aimed at national development.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s long-awaited decision to address the rumours and internal treacheries directed against him marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political discourse. It serves as a powerful testament to the resilience required of leaders navigating complex interpersonal and regional dynamics. Equally, it exposes the destructive nature of envy and deceit within political circles and calls for unwavering commitment to truth, loyalty and transparent leadership. As Nigerians observe this unfolding chapter, there is renewed hope that such candid revelations will pave the way for more robust governance, stronger alliances and a political culture anchored in integrity. Ultimately, Shettima’s voice breaking the silence is not merely a personal vindication—it is a beacon, encouraging all stakeholders to rise above pettiness for the sake of the nation’s future.
- Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
