Bursting the Myth: There is No Cold War Between Tinubu and Shettima

Nigeria

Opinion – By Otunba (Dr.) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG)

In the rumbling corridors of Nigerian politics, alarmist messages alleging a “tactical cold war” between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have recently gained unwarranted traction. These narratives, fueled by speculation and misinformation, threaten to fracture the unity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and mislead an already impatient citizenry waiting for decisive governance.

It is imperative to set the record straight: the circulating claims are baseless and dangerous distractions from the real business of national development.

First and foremost, there is absolutely no credible evidence that Vice President Shettima harbors any antagonism or rivalry against President Tinubu. In fact, Vice President Shettima exemplifies a rare political loyalty, standing steadfastly beside the President during challenging times and consistently reaffirming commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda—a policy platform focused on economic revitalization, security, and infrastructural growth.

Secondly, the tired trope of “cabalism” or secretive power blocs within the presidential villa is nothing more than a recycled political myth. Nigeria’s democratic structure clearly vests authority with the President and Vice President, not with anonymous shadow groups. Unsubstantiated claims of covert power struggles do nothing but foment distrust and uncertainty in a nation already grappling with complex governance challenges.

Thirdly, the APC remains a robust and cohesive political entity. The party holds a decisive majority in the National Assembly and governs most Nigerian states, a testament to its organizational strength and popular acceptance. Like any political organization, internal disagreements do surface; however, they are managed professionally within the party’s institutional frameworks. It is both premature and reckless to suggest that the party’s unity is at risk on account of any so-called discord between the President and the Vice President.

There is also a misleading comparison being pushed by some quarters between Vice President Shettima and political figures such as former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai. These analogies are unhelpful and inaccurate. El-Rufai’s political trajectory is personal and distinct from Shettima’s role as Vice President and partner in the executive. Likewise, insinuations that allegations of corruption exposed by Shettima—if any—amount to disloyalty or regional betrayal are categorically false. No credible record exists of Shettima opening “a can of worms” regarding corruption in the judiciary or legislature.

Ultimately, the narrative of a “cold war” is a fictional distraction from the governance and policy matters that truly affect Nigerians: security, job creation, infrastructure, and economic transformation. At this critical juncture in our nation’s history, what Nigeria needs is solidarity and purposeful action, not divisive rumors and conspiracy theories.

As Nigerians, we must collectively reject the noise and misinformation that seek to undermine the nation’s progress. It is time to recommit ourselves to the ideals of unity and constructive citizenship. Let us channel our energies into supporting governance that delivers on the promise of a better Nigeria.

The future is too precious and the challenges too daunting for us to be held hostage by unfounded rumors. Together, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, we can write the next chapter of Nigeria’s renaissance—one of hope, stability, and growth.

Otunba (Dr.) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo, D.Sc (h.c)
National Chairman
Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG)

Article sent by Our Correspondent Dooyum Naadzenga)