In a recent interview, Yerima Shettima, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, argued that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) lacks the credibility to serve as a serious alternative in the 2027 presidential race, saying that President Bola Tinubu has performed well enough to merit continued support.
Shettima, speaking to Independent Newspaper, said political opposition groups are prematurely positioning themselves as alternatives without demonstrating sufficient track records or new policy solutions. “I cannot see ADC as the answer at this stage,” he stated, questioning whether its leadership possesses the vision or track records that can outperform Tinubu’s presidency.
He pointed out that many individuals behind ADC formerly held positions in various parties and administrations—some with questionable legacies. According to Shettima, “What exactly have they done that qualifies them to suddenly reverse Nigeria’s fortunes? We’ve tried many repeats already.” He added that Tinubu’s administration is gradually stabilising key sectors such as foreign exchange and inflation, and that these gains deserve recognition.
Addressing perennial concerns about regional marginalization, Shettima rejected allegations that the Tinubu-led government is sideling Northern interests. He observed that reforms take time, but urged patience and collaboration rather than immediate condemnation. “When you compare past regimes, you’ll see that today’s challenges are inherited — and solutions must be collective, not punitive,” he declared.
On security, Shettima acknowledged that instability remains a national concern, but argued that insecurity is not unique to Nigeria. He insisted that Tinubu’s strategic reshuffling of security chiefs demonstrates a changing approach to combating threats, rather than evidence of failure.
Shettima also criticized what he described as political opportunism, citing Obi’s birthday celebration in an IDP camp as a superficial gesture aimed at optics rather than substance. “Showing up once for a birthday doesn’t prove love for Nigeria,” he said, asking why similar gestures weren’t made during Obi’s governor tenure in Anambra.
Regarding the strained political climate ahead of the 2027 elections, Shettima advocated for clear zoning rules. He proposed that the South should not be shut out from contesting and asserted that Tinubu deserves a chance to prove his leadership beyond his current term, provided performance and fairness guide the process.
About perceived ethnic tensions, he rejected claims that civil war history weighs heavily on voter sentiment. “Talking about old conflicts helps no one. What matters is who presents policies and leadership credibility now,” he remarked. He added that constructive governance should transcend identity politics.
Shettima also addressed the ongoing detention of Nnamdi Kanu, emphasizing that while he is sympathetic to those demanding his release, the rule of law must prevail. “Kanu is under court adjudication. If evidence clears him, he should be released. Otherwise, process must hold,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Shettima reaffirmed his stance that Tinubu’s leadership merits continued evaluation rather than outright dismissal. “Let us assess based on results and vision—not mere slogans,” he urged, emphasizing the need for credible alternatives in the political arena.
