Vice President Kashim Shettima has told the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) former presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar to expect more political jabs from him in the run-up to the 2027 general elections, despite their cordial relationship.
Shettima disclosed this humorously on Thursday at a symposium in Abuja to commemorate the 60th birthday of a former governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi.
The vice president described himself as an “adjunct provocateur” who laid aside friendship and took “hot shots” at Atiku during the 2023 presidential election.
He stressed that he was happy that the former vice president, whom he normally addresses as “Baba,” a colloquial term for father, took the criticism in good faith, knowing it was all part of politics. Shettima’s wisecrack prompted laughter from the audience, and Atiku himself managed a smile.
During his speech at the event, Shettima appealed to all leaders to unite, irrespective of their political divides.
“The trajectory of global growth is facing Africa, and Nigeria must make or break that future. Nigeria must work for Africa to work. I beg all our leaders here, let’s unite for the common good of our people,” he said.
Atiku has been critical of Tinubu’s administration, with his recent allegation that their administration was undermining democracy and attempting to weaken opposition parties. He also accused the presidency of offering N50 million to opposition parties to dilute their influence.
He reiterated his call to all opposition parties and leaders to close ranks to form a coalition to unseat the Tinubu-led administration in 2027.
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