Shettima Praises El-Rufai: “Hate Him or Love Him, You Can’t Ignore Him”
In a striking show of political camaraderie, Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has publicly lauded former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing him as an indispensable figure in Nigerian politics. The remarks came during a book launch event in Abuja on Thursday, July 10, where Shettima offered candid assessments of several prominent political figures.
The “Enfant Terrible” of Nigerian Politics
Shettima didn’t mince words when characterizing El-Rufai, the controversial former governor known for his bold reforms and polarizing policies in Kaduna State. “He’s the enfant terrible of the Nigerian Governors’ Club,” Shettima declared, using the French term typically describing an unorthodox or rebellious figure.
The vice president’s most memorable line about El-Rufai resonated through the political sphere: “Hate him, love him, but you can’t ignore him.” This statement acknowledges El-Rufai’s enduring influence in Nigerian politics despite—or perhaps because of—his contentious reputation.
Kwankwaso Also Receives Accolades
Shettima’s praise wasn’t limited to El-Rufai. He also commended Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former Kano State governor and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), describing him as “the fire-spitting leader of the Kwankwassiyya Movement.”
According to Vanguard reports, Shettima emphasized unity among Nigerian politicians regardless of party affiliation. “All Nigerian politicians are one in our task to build the country,” he stated, striking a conciliatory tone amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political Context: Rumors and Realignments
Shettima’s comments come amid swirling political rumors and potential realignments within Nigeria’s political landscape. Recent reports have suggested possible rifts between Shettima and President Bola Tinubu, with speculation that Kwankwaso—rumored to be considering joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—might replace Shettima as vice presidential candidate in 2027.
While APC chieftains have dismissed these rumors, they persist against the backdrop of a growing opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. This coalition, which includes El-Rufai, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, aims to unseat Tinubu in the next election cycle.
Challenges Facing the Opposition Coalition
Political analysts note significant hurdles for the opposition coalition, primarily the competing presidential ambitions of its key figures. As Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former spokesperson of the Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), observed, “Virtually all its leaders have presidential ambition and none appear ready to surrender theirs for another.”
This internal competition raises questions about the coalition’s ability to present a united front against the incumbent administration as the 2027 elections approach.
NNPP Chieftain’s Advice to Voters
In related political developments, NNPP chieftain Olufemi Ajadi has urged Nigerians to critically evaluate political leaders’ performance before the next elections. The former Ogun State governorship candidate advised voters to “shun politicians and parties that failed to fulfil their 2023 electoral promises.”
Ajadi lamented Nigeria’s persistent challenges despite campaign promises, emphasizing the need for accountability in the democratic process. His comments reflect growing public frustration with unfulfilled political commitments across party lines.
The Road to 2027
As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, Shettima’s public praise for both APC and opposition figures suggests possible behind-the-scenes negotiations and realignments. The vice president’s remarks about El-Rufai and Kwankwaso—two influential figures with significant regional followings—may signal attempts to bridge political divides or consolidate support ahead of the next election cycle.
With three years remaining until the 2027 general elections, Nigerian politicians appear to be positioning themselves early, setting the stage for what promises to be another fiercely contested political battle.
Source: Legit.ng