Jonathan Vatsa, an APC chieftain in Niger State, has publicly criticized the decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election. Vatsa, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism in Niger State, issued a statement in Minna on Saturday, warning that the move could result in significant future challenges for the party.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

His main points include:

• Political Insensitivity: Vatsa characterized the retention of the Muslim-Muslim ticket as “a direct insult” to the Christian community and labeled it a “grievous mistake” that lacks political sensitivity.

• Shifting Circumstances: He argued that the political conditions that may have justified a same-faith ticket in 2023 no longer apply to the upcoming 2027 election.

• Electoral Risk: The chieftain cautioned that the APC will face difficulties securing Christian votes, particularly if rival parties choose to field Christian candidates.

• Concerns Over Equity: He emphasized that his stance is rooted in a desire for “equity, justice and fairness,” rather than animosity toward the Vice President or the Muslim community.

• Security Concerns: Vatsa noted that given the current climate regarding the safety of Christians, a repeat of the same-faith arrangement is expected to cause further feelings of insecurity within the Christian community.

Nollywood actor Femi Branch has called on Nigerian politicians to cease politicizing the recent abduction and subsequent rescue of pupils and teachers in Oyo State. His appeal follows comments made by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who noted that the kidnapping occurred only hours after he officially declared his intention to run for president, implying a connection to political maneuvering.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, has leveled accusations of animosity toward Nigerians against African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) counterpart Peter Obi. Bwala’s critique followed incidents regarding airport parking rules and a lack of public response to recent security developments.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• Critique of Conduct: Bwala questioned how these politicians claim a desire to improve the nation when he believes their behavior demonstrates a hatred for both Nigeria and its people.

• Allegations against Peter Obi: Bwala accused Obi of violating airport traffic regulations, claiming his car was clamped and alleging that Obi responded with untruths about threats to his life.

• Allegations against Atiku Abubakar: Bwala criticized Atiku for a perceived lack of empathy and solidarity, noting that while the politician is often quick to comment when the country faces difficulties, he remained silent following the rescue of abducted teachers and pupils in Oyo State.

• Accusations of Exploitation: According to Bwala, both men prefer to exploit people’s misfortunes for political gain rather than respecting human dignity and freedom.

• Summary Assessment: Bwala concluded his remarks by stating that “desperate people do desperate things”.