Don’t destroy APC if you lose primaries – Shettima warns aspirants

Vice President Kashim Shettima has cautioned aspirants within the All Progressives Congress (APC) against actions that could weaken the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging them to remain loyal even if they lose during the primaries.

In a piece titled “2027: Don’t Pull Down the Roof,” Shettima stressed the need for unity within the ruling party, noting that despite differing ambitions, loyalties, and interests, members must remember they belong to one political family.

He warned against being swayed by external influences, including media narratives and political mischief-makers, who may seek to create division within the party.

“These are familiar tricks in the theatre of politics. They are meant to provoke suspicion, inflame supporters, and turn comrades into adversaries before the real contest even begins,” he said.

The Vice President emphasised that competition for party tickets is a natural part of democracy, pointing out that only one candidate can emerge from any primary contest.

“That outcome, however painful to others, is not always an injustice. It is often the unavoidable arithmetic of democracy,” he noted.

Shettima added that the true character of a politician is revealed not in victory, but in how they handle defeat, urging aspirants to show maturity and discipline.

Addressing the issue of endorsements, which has generated tension within the party, he acknowledged that political leaders and stakeholders are entitled to preferences but warned against turning such support into a source of division.

“Preference must never become provocation. Influence must never become intimidation. Persuasion must never become exclusion,” he stated.

He called on party leaders to ensure fairness and transparency in the conduct of primaries, stressing that delegates must be allowed to make decisions freely and that grievances should be handled with patience and justice.

The Vice President also urged aggrieved aspirants to remain committed to the party, describing politics as a long-term journey where setbacks can eventually lead to greater opportunities.

“Those who understand this do not burn their vehicles because of one rough turn,” he said.

Shettima warned that the APC must not become a casualty of internal divisions, adding that its diversity should be managed with discipline and mutual respect.

“At this moment, what our party needs is not noise but steadiness. Not suspicion but conversation. Not bitterness but maturity,” he added.

He further cited President Bola Tinubu as an example of political resilience and coalition-building, noting that disagreements are inevitable but must be resolved without damaging the party’s foundation.

“The roof over this house shelters all of us. If we pull it down in anger, nobody will be spared by the storm,” Shettima warned.

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