Shettima’s final test, by Azu Ishiekwene
This opinion piece analyzes the political challenges faced by Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima within the Tinubu administration. It explores the history of political maneuvering and the persistent opposition to the current leadership's composition.
Why it matters
Understanding the internal dynamics of the Nigerian government is essential for assessing political stability and policy direction in Africa's most populous nation.
Layer 1 Vice President Kashim Shettima cannot be blamed for having doubts about whether President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would renominate him as his running mate for a second term.
As governor of Lagos State for eight years, Tinubu used three deputies: KofoworolaBucknor-Akerele, Femi Pedro, and AbiodunOgunleye. Only Senate President GodswillAkpabio (as AkwaIbom governor) matched this record in the last 27 years. Whether it was a matter of style, chemistry, or vision, Governor Tinubu always had a reason to change his deputies. In Shettima’s case, history was not the only reason for concern.
Some desperately wanted his job from the start. A few were party stalwarts, like embattled former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who sources said thought it fair compensation for weighing in on Tinubu’s behalf when President MuhammaduBuhari was wavering about who would succeed him.
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