Vice President Shettima Questions Atiku and Obi’s Leadership Claims at APC Rally

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has questioned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s claim of having the necessary experience to lead the country. Shettima spoke during an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he emphasized that leadership should be judged by achievements and the ability to develop future leaders, rather than just years in office.

At the rally, attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other party leaders, Shettima also criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress. He accused Obi of losing public support due to misleading statements and inflated statistics.

Shettima acknowledged Atiku’s long career in public service but argued that simply holding office for many years does not guarantee effective leadership. He stated that what matters more is what candidates have accomplished and how they have strengthened institutions.

He pointed out that Atiku’s political influence in his home state of Adamawa has diminished, highlighting issues with the succession of governors there since 1999. Shettima also raised concerns about Atiku’s role in the privatization of national assets, alleging corruption and procedural issues during the Obasanjo administration.

Despite his criticisms, Shettima urged Nigerians to carefully evaluate the records and achievements of all presidential candidates, including President Tinubu. He stressed that the presidency should not be seen as a reward for years in politics but as a role that requires proven competence and results.

Concluding his remarks, Shettima expressed gratitude to the people of Akwa Ibom for their support and expressed confidence in the APC’s prospects in the upcoming 2027 elections, hoping for greater development in the state.