Shettima: Tinubu Deserves Support, Not Criticism

Yerima Shettima, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum and Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, spoke about President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the 2027 elections, and other national issues.

He said he does not believe there is any deliberate plan to marginalise the North under President Tinubu. According to him, governance has always been about people, security, and stability, and every administration tends to work closely with those it can trust. He recalled that even during past governments from Obasanjo to Jonathan and Buhari, there were similar accusations, adding that Tinubu only inherited serious challenges such as insecurity and a weak economy. He noted that it would be unfair to expect Tinubu to perform miracles in just two years when Buhari was given eight years.

Shettima maintained that the removal of fuel subsidy was inevitable, as all the major presidential candidates, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, supported the idea. He argued that critics should not condemn Tinubu simply because of political differences, pointing out that the naira is beginning to stabilise and there are signs of renewed hope in the economy.

When asked about the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a possible alternative ahead of 2027, Shettima dismissed the idea, saying he had not seen any credible leadership or strong personalities in the party. He explained that many of those involved in the coalition had previously held positions and failed to deliver results. He said the country could not continue to repeat the same mistakes and expect different outcomes, insisting that Tinubu is doing fine.

On the issue of insecurity, Shettima said no country in the world is completely free from insecurity, as it is a global phenomenon. He observed that while the situation fluctuates, the government must continue to strengthen security agencies to maintain progress. According to him, even under Buhari, insecurity was a major problem, and it would be unfair to expect Tinubu to fix everything overnight. He urged Nigerians to support the government and focus on competence rather than ethnicity.

Speaking on the recent change of service chiefs, Shettima said the president has the constitutional right to appoint or remove them at any time. He explained that such changes are normal and usually occur every two years as part of standard military practice. He added that Tinubu did nothing wrong by restructuring the security leadership.

Regarding the 2027 presidential election and the question of zoning, Shettima said in the spirit of fairness, justice, and equity, power should remain in the South. He stated that Tinubu, as the incumbent, should be allowed to complete his first term and possibly be re-elected if Nigerians are satisfied with his performance. He said the president deserves a full opportunity to prove himself.

On the economy, Shettima argued that Tinubu did not inherit a healthy system and is working to rebuild it for the good of all Nigerians. He admitted that inflation and high prices are real, but said they are part of a gradual restructuring process. He noted that the naira has become more stable in recent months and that government revenue is improving. He called for patience, saying it takes time to fix a broken system.

When asked about Peter Obi’s political strength in the North, Shettima said Obi does not have any problem in the region but needs better grassroots engagement. He advised Obi to work with influential northern figures and connect more with ordinary people. He emphasised that the issue is not about ethnicity but about approach and understanding.

He dismissed the belief that the memory of the civil war still affects how northerners view Igbo politicians, saying that anyone holding such a view is living in the past. He explained that many Igbo people have been honoured with traditional titles in the North and maintain strong relationships across ethnic lines. He said politics today is based on capacity and ideas, not past conflicts.

On the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, Shettima said the case is before the court and should be allowed to follow due process. He stated that releasing Kanu without a court ruling would set a bad precedent and that the rule of law must be respected. He added that if the court finds him innocent, then he should be freed, but until then, the process should continue without interference.

Speaking about the new INEC chairman and the credibility of future elections, Shettima said there is always a need for electoral reform but also commended Professor Mahmood Yakubu for his work during the last election. He said Yakubu did a good job and should be appreciated for his commitment and professionalism. He observed that in Nigeria, those who lose elections always claim there was compromise, while those who win believe the process was fair.

Shettima concluded by saying that in the spirit of fairness and equity, the South should retain power after Buhari’s eight years. He believes Tinubu is doing well and should be allowed to complete his tenure. According to him, Nigerians should give the president time and support to deliver on his promises before making final judgments.