Vice President Kashim Shettima has cautioned political actors within the ruling party (All Progressives Congress) against actions that could weaken internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the party must not become a victim of its own strength.
In a statement titled “Don’t Pull Down the Roof,” Shettima said the ongoing wave of consultations and political alignments across the country reflects a healthy democratic process but must be managed with restraint.
“The political season is upon us again and with it comes the familiar fever of democracy Across our wards and local governments, across party offices and private homes, consultations have begun.
Aspirants are making calls, elders are receiving visits, supporters are counting delegates, and the marketplace of ambition is alive once more,” he said, adding that democracy thrives on competition but should not breed division.
He stressed that political parties must be seen as collective platforms rather than battlegrounds for personal ambition.
“A political party is not a battlefield. It is a family. And even in the most spirited family, the roof must never be pulled down because one room appears warmer than another,” he stated.
The Vice President warned against divisive narratives and manipulation, urging stakeholders to focus on unity and shared goals.
“Who benefits when a party weakens itself before facing the opposition?” he asked.
Shettima noted that while party primaries would produce candidates, the real test lies in maintaining unity for the general elections.
“A fractured party may produce a candidate, but only a united party can produce victory,” he said.
He called on party leaders to ensure fairness and transparency in the conduct of primaries, while urging aspirants and their supporters to exercise discipline and moderation.
“Moderation is not weakness. It is wisdom in public conduct. It is the discipline to speak without poisoning the well,” he added.
The Vice President also emphasised the need for political maturity, particularly in handling outcomes of party contests.
“It takes character to manage disappointment. It takes statesmanship to congratulate a rival,” he said.
He warned that Nigerians are closely observing political conduct, stressing that leaders must demonstrate responsibility and commitment to service.
“A politician who destroys his party because he lost a ticket may destroy a state because he lost an argument,” Shettima cautioned.
He further urged party members to emulate the leadership style of President Bola Tinubu, particularly in consensus-building and accommodation.
“The strength of a party is not in the absence of disagreements, but in its capacity to resolve them without losing its soul,” he said.
Shettima concluded by calling for unity and discipline among party faithful, stressing that internal stability is key to electoral success.
“Contest, but do not destroy. Disagree, but do not defame. Aspire, but do not divide. Lose, if it happens, with dignity. Win, if it happens, with humility. And after the primaries, let us close ranks,” he said.