Presidency Denies Rift Between Tinubu and Shettima Amid Smear Campaign

Presidency dismissed rumors suggesting a hidden conflict between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. The reports, according to the Presidency, are nothing more than misleading propaganda aimed at damaging the strong bond between the two leaders.

Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima’s spokesman, issued a statement refuting the claims. He emphasized that, historically, no Vice President in Nigeria has enjoyed the level of trust and support from their principal as Shettima does from Tinubu. In return, Shettima’s loyalty to Tinubu is described as unwavering and genuine.

Nkwocha highlighted that in a political environment where loyalty is often questioned, Shettima’s dedication stands out. His consistent support and teamwork with President Tinubu are seen as a positive shift toward cooperative governance, setting a commendable example for their administration.

In a related development, APC chieftain Jesutega Onokpasa has called on President Tinubu to halt the persecution of former governors Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna and Yahaya Bello of Kogi. Onokpasa, a known Tinubu supporter, argues that the ongoing scrutiny of these former governors is unjust and is harming the President’s reputation. He claims that those leveraging anti-graft agencies against them are motivated by personal interests, casting the APC as a party that exploits and then abandons its loyalists.

In a viral video message, Onokpasa urged Tinubu to extend forgiveness to the former governors, describing them as key figures in Tinubu’s rise to power. He questioned the rationale behind their alleged disqualification from ministerial positions based on security reports that did not previously disqualify them from holding other significant roles.

Onokpasa expressed frustration over what he perceives as a witch-hunt, referencing the earlier support provided by the former governors to Tinubu and his administration. He stressed that he seeks fairness rather than any personal gain from the current administration.

As the debate continues, both the Presidency’s dismissal of internal rift rumors and Onokpasa’s appeal for justice highlight ongoing political tensions and the quest for unity within the APC.