Vice-President Kashim Shettima has issued a stark warning to opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, declaring that President Bola Tinubu's record in office will guarantee the All Progressives Congress (APC) victory in the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu's Experience is Our Shield, Says Shettima
Speaking at the APC National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Friday, December 19, at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Shettima expressed unwavering confidence in the party's future. He addressed party leaders, asserting that President Tinubu's experience, leadership, and governance achievements place him far ahead of any potential challenger.
"With the experience of our president as our shield and the lessons of the past as our guide, I believe that 2027 is not a gamble; it is a responsibility," the Vice-President stated emphatically. He insisted that anyone preparing to contest against Tinubu is merely setting themselves up for defeat, citing what he described as the President's solid scorecard.
Elections Are Won by Conviction, Not Social Media Noise
In a clear dig at opposition campaigns known for their robust online presence, Shettima cautioned that electoral success is not determined by digital popularity alone. He stressed a fundamental principle of Nigerian politics that extends beyond trending topics.
"Elections are not won by noise or nostalgia. Elections are not conducted on Facebook or Twitter. They are won by coalitions, credibility and conviction," Shettima declared. This remark underscores the APC's strategy to focus on ground-level political structures and broad-based support, rather than virtual sentiment.
APC Confident in Open Democratic Contest
While projecting supreme confidence, the Vice-President acknowledged Nigeria's vibrant democracy, where every citizen has the right to aspire to political office. He stated that the APC is fully prepared for a competitive electoral process but remains assured of its victory based on its track record.
"By the fear of God, we shall have a renewable blessing," Shettima added, expressing optimism about the party's prospects. His comments are set to ignite further political debate as opposition parties begin early manoeuvres for the next presidential race.
The warning from the nation's second-highest office signals the start of intense political positioning for the 2027 polls, with the APC seeking to frame the contest around Tinubu's incumbency and performance, while dismissing opposition strength as largely confined to social media platforms.
