Shettima Warns APC Aspirants: “Don’t Pull Down The Roof

Vice President Kashim Shettima has issued a strong warning to aspirants under the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections, urging them not to destabilize the party if they fail to secure tickets during the primaries.

According to Ireporter Online, Shettima made the remarks in a piece titled “2027: Don’t pull down the roof,” where he cautioned party members against being swayed by media manipulation or divisive narratives capable of undermining internal unity.

He stressed that while aspirants may have different ambitions, loyal followings, regional influences, and political calculations, they all remain members of the same political family and must act in the collective interest of the party.

The Vice President warned against falling for what he described as deliberate attempts by mischief-makers and vested interests to sow discord within the party, noting that such tactics are often designed to pit allies against one another before elections even begin.

He further argued that responsible leadership requires restraint and reflection, questioning who truly benefits when internal divisions are allowed to weaken a party ahead of a general contest.

Shettima acknowledged that in every electoral process, only one candidate ultimately emerges from a pool of aspirants, adding that while many may invest time, resources, and expectations, the outcome is a normal feature of democratic competition rather than an injustice.

He also emphasized that the true measure of political maturity is not in moments of victory but in how individuals respond to defeat, noting that managing disappointment is a key test of character in politics.

Addressing the growing debate around political endorsements within the APC, Shettima maintained that while preferences among leaders and stakeholders are natural, they must not be allowed to translate into intimidation or exclusion of other aspirants.

He called on party leaders to ensure fairness and inclusiveness in the conduct of the primaries, while urging aspirants to be treated with respect and dignity throughout the process.