Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has called on political actors to prioritize unity and restraint as the 2027 election cycle gathers momentum, warning that internal conflicts could weaken party structures ahead of the general polls.
In a strongly worded piece titled “2027: Don’t Pull Down the Roof,” Shettima acknowledged the heightened political activities across the country, describing them as a sign that democracy remains active and competitive. However, he cautioned that such periods also come with risks, including division, misinformation, and unhealthy rivalry.
The Vice President stressed that political parties should not be treated as battlefields but as families, where disagreements must be managed without разрушing the collective structure. According to him, ambition is natural in a democracy, but must be guided by discipline, tolerance, and respect for due process.
He warned aspirants and stakeholders against allowing media narratives, external influences, or internal grievances to create unnecessary tensions within party ranks. “A fractured party may produce a candidate, but only a united party can secure victory,” he noted.
Shettima emphasized the importance of fair and transparent primaries, urging party leaders to ensure credibility in the process while calling on aspirants to accept outcomes with maturity. He maintained that not all contenders can emerge winners, describing such outcomes as the “arithmetic of democracy” rather than injustice.
Highlighting the need for patience and loyalty, the Vice President said political careers are long-term journeys, where temporary setbacks can later turn into opportunities. He also reminded politicians that Nigerians are closely observing how leaders manage disagreements, noting that character in moments of loss is a true test of leadership.
Referencing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima pointed to the importance of coalition-building, accommodation, and resilience in sustaining democratic growth.
He concluded by urging all party members—leaders, aspirants, and supporters—to avoid actions that could destabilize their political platforms, stressing that unity after party primaries would be critical to winning elections and delivering governance.
“Contest, but do not destroy. Disagree, but do not defame,” he advised, adding that the survival and success of any political party depend on its ability to remain cohesive during and after internal contests.
