Shettima: Presidency Not for Intimidation, Says South-East Has Better Candidates Than Obi
Vice President Kashim Shettima has stated that Nigeria’s presidency cannot be attained through coercion or intimidation, stressing that leadership in a diverse nation requires inclusivity, consensus, and broad national appeal.
Speaking on the country’s political climate, Shettima warned against attempts to forcefully secure power, noting that Nigeria’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious nature demands bridge-building and unity.
“In a multi-ethnic, multi-religious politics like ours, nobody can bulldoze his way to power through deceit, lies, intimidation, threats and blackmail. You get to power by building bridges, by reaching out,” he said.
The Vice President expressed support for the emergence of a president from the South-East region, describing it as a step toward healing historical divisions. However, he criticized what he described as unproductive methods adopted by some political actors.
“I am for the emergence of a Nigerian president of South-Eastern extraction to heal the wounds of the civil war, but the models of engagement adopted by some groups are condemnable and will not yield results,” he added.
Reflecting on past political strategies, Shettima cited the grassroots approach of the late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, emphasizing the importance of nationwide engagement and coalition-building in achieving political success.
He further argued that the South-East region has several capable leaders, suggesting that there are individuals more qualified to lead Nigeria than Peter Obi.
Among those he highlighted was Rochas Okorocha, whom he described as widely connected across different regions of the country, with strong cultural and economic ties beyond the South-East.
Shettima also commended David Umahi, praising his record in infrastructure development, particularly during his tenure as governor of Ebonyi State.
According to the Vice President, Nigeria’s path to stable leadership lies in unity, inclusion, and the ability of leaders to build trust across regional and ethnic lines.
