Politics

Shettima Attacks Atiku Over Tinubu Remarks, Questions Subsidy Plan

Published

48 minutes ago

October 15, 2026

Shettima Attacks Atiku Over Tinubu Remarks, Questions Subsidy Plan

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has launched a fresh attack on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, declaring that he is “no Abraham Lincoln” while criticising him for addressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by his first name and questioning his proposed production subsidy policy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Shettima made the remarks on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The event provided an opportunity for the Vice-President to defend the Tinubu administration, challenge opposition figures and outline the ruling party’s arguments as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum.

Shettima argued that anyone aspiring to become Nigeria’s president should demonstrate maturity, discipline and respect for public institutions, even while criticising the incumbent administration.

“Those who want equity must come with clean hands. You can call him Bola. If you like, you can call him Adekunle. But the truth is that he is the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

The Vice-President added that he would continue to address Atiku by his former official title despite their political differences.

“Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, Atiku Abubakar. I will still respect him and call him his former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar,” Shettima said.

He subsequently compared Atiku with Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, who is widely associated with the abolition of slavery in the country.

“But believe me, Atiku Abubakar, who has contested for the presidency of this country for the eighth time, is no Abraham Lincoln. He is more of Oginga Odinga,” the Vice-President said.

Oginga Odinga was a prominent Kenyan political figure who served as the country’s first vice-president. Shettima’s comparison formed part of his criticism of Atiku’s repeated presidential bids and political approach.

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The Vice-President maintained that the Nigerian presidency should not be regarded as an ordinary political prize, arguing that the office demands sound judgment, responsibility and respect for constitutional institutions.

“The presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is not an ordinary political prize. It is the highest expression of constitutional authority in our country,” he said.

The dispute over the use of Tinubu’s first name has also attracted a response from Atiku’s camp. His aide on public communication, Phrank Shaibu, defended the former vice-president’s choice of words, arguing that “Bola” was the President’s name and that using it did not necessarily amount to disrespect.

The exchange highlights the increasingly sharp rhetoric between the ruling APC and opposition figures as political parties prepare for the next presidential election.

Shettima challenges Atiku over production subsidies

Beyond the disagreement over presidential protocol, Shettima questioned Atiku’s proposal for production subsidies, demanding explanations about how the policy would be financed and which competing government priorities might lose funding.

Atiku has advocated economic measures aimed at stimulating domestic production and easing pressure on consumers. His production subsidy proposal has become a point of contention between the opposition and the Tinubu administration.

Shettima argued that policy announcements must be accompanied by clear explanations of their costs, funding arrangements and expected benefits.

“This political season has become a masterclass in cinematic comedy,” he said.

The Vice-President continued: “Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s proposal for production subsidies raises questions that some changes cannot answer. Who pays? Who benefits? And which competing priorities must surrender their funding?”

“A change in ideological wardrobe cannot balance a national budget,” he added.

The APC Presidential Campaign Council has also challenged Atiku to explain the proposed subsidy’s funding source, spending limits, intended beneficiaries and safeguards against diversion or fraud. The council has questioned how the proposal would operate within Nigeria’s existing petroleum regulatory framework.

The disagreement raises important questions about the feasibility of fuel price relief, the cost of supporting domestic production and the government’s ability to balance economic assistance with other public spending needs.

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For the proposal to be properly assessed, details of its funding model, eligibility rules, implementation arrangements and expected impact on consumers and producers would need to be examined.

Vice-President questions opposition unity

Shettima also challenged opposition politicians over their ability to manage Nigeria’s competing interests, arguing that political leaders seeking to replace the APC government must demonstrate that they can work together.

“Meanwhile, those offering to rescue Nigeria cannot keep their own political households intact,” he said.

He questioned how opposition leaders could reconcile the interests of more than 200 million Nigerians if they struggled to resolve disagreements within their own political organisations.

“So I ask, if reconciling a few party leaders defeats you, how will you reconcile the interests of over 200 million citizens?” he asked.

The comments come amid political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with opposition figures seeking to build alliances capable of challenging the ruling party.

Shettima also criticised former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), over his economic proposals and claims concerning the 2023 presidential election.

He questioned whether policies adopted in other countries could be transferred directly to Nigeria without accounting for differences in population, institutions and economic conditions.

The Vice-President argued that claims about elections and economic performance should be supported by evidence, while defending the APC’s record in office.

Shettima defends Tinubu’s economic reforms

The Vice-President also defended the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system.

He maintained that the government had inherited serious fiscal and economic challenges and that its reforms were intended to address longstanding structural problems.

According to the administration’s position, the changes are designed to reduce distortions in public finances, improve economic stability and create conditions for sustainable growth.

However, the reforms have placed significant pressure on households and businesses, with the cost of living, transport expenses and food prices remaining important concerns for many Nigerians.

These pressures are likely to feature prominently in the 2027 election campaign, as opposition parties scrutinise the government’s performance and propose alternative economic policies.

For the APC, the challenge will be to demonstrate that its reforms are delivering tangible improvements in employment, purchasing power, investment and public services.

For the opposition, presenting credible and adequately funded alternatives will be central to persuading voters that a change in leadership would produce better economic outcomes.

Shettima’s remarks reflect the intensifying political exchanges ahead of the election, with the ruling party defending its record and opposition leaders challenging its policies and leadership.

Ultimately, the debate over Tinubu’s second-term bid, Atiku’s production subsidy proposal and the opposition’s ability to work together will place economic performance, leadership and policy credibility at the centre of the 2027 presidential contest.

Shettima Attacks Atiku Over Tinubu Remarks, Questions Subsidy Plan

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2027: We Know How to Stop Tinubu From Getting Second Term – Momodu

Politics

2027: We Know How to Stop Tinubu From Getting Second Term – Momodu

Published

1 hour ago

October 15, 2026

Trends Admin

Veteran journalist and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Dele Momodu

2027: We Know How to Stop Tinubu From Getting Second Term – Momodu

Veteran journalist and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Dele Momodu, has expressed confidence that the opposition can prevent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from securing a second term in the 2027 presidential election.

Momodu, who serves as Deputy Director-General of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, made the remarks during an interview on Arise News’ Prime Time programme on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

He criticised Tinubu’s political leadership, alleging that the President had consolidated excessive power and brought several arms of government under his influence.

The veteran journalist compared the current political situation with the administration of the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, arguing that Tinubu had gone beyond what Abacha did in drawing political actors into his sphere of influence.

Momodu’s comments come amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties intensifying efforts to build support for their respective candidates.

The ADC chieftain expressed confidence that the opposition could mount an effective challenge against Tinubu, who has indicated his intention to seek re-election after winning the APC presidential primary.

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Momodu has repeatedly argued that the opposition’s chances would depend on its ability to build a strong coalition, agree on an effective electoral strategy and prevent divisions from weakening its challenge to the ruling party.

In January 2026, he said defeating Tinubu was possible if opposition parties closely monitored the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and presented candidates with sufficient political strength to compete against the APC.

He also identified prominent opposition figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, as political figures with the capacity to contribute to a formidable challenge.

In March, Momodu further argued that an opposition presidential ticket pairing Atiku with a prominent southern politician, such as Obi or Amaechi, could threaten Tinubu’s re-election bid.

He maintained that opposition leaders needed to prioritise strategic cooperation over personal ambitions if they hoped to defeat the incumbent president.

Momodu has also warned that disagreements over presidential zoning could undermine the opposition’s chances by splitting votes along regional lines.

His latest comments come as Tinubu’s supporters continue to mobilise for his re-election. On October 10, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and six APC governors from the North-Central region endorsed Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima for a second term.

The endorsement illustrates the competing political efforts taking shape ahead of the 2027 election, as the APC seeks to consolidate its support base while opposition parties work to present a credible alternative.

Although Momodu has expressed confidence in the opposition’s prospects, the outcome of the election will depend on several factors, including candidate selection, party organisation, voter participation and the conduct of the electoral process.

The 2027 presidential contest is expected to test the strength of the ruling party and the ability of opposition groups to coordinate their political ambitions into an effective electoral challenge.

2027: We Know How to Stop Tinubu From Getting Second Term – Momodu

Politics

‘Tinubu Is Clearing Your Mess’ – Keyamo Blasts Atiku Over Nigeria Airways

Published

17 hours ago

October 14, 2026

Trends Admin

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar

‘Tinubu Is Clearing Your Mess’ – Keyamo Blasts Atiku Over Nigeria Airways

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has described former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as a “hypocrite” and a “con artist” over his criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, accusing him of distancing himself from controversial decisions taken while he was in government.

Keyamo’s remarks followed Atiku’s criticism of Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and insecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections. The former vice-president had urged Nigerians to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), promising to make life more affordable and restore security if given the opportunity to lead the country.

In his post, Atiku said rising living costs had made it increasingly difficult for families to provide basic necessities, while pensioners faced difficult choices between buying food and obtaining medication. He also expressed concern about kidnapping and attacks that have left communities living in fear.

Reacting in a post on his official X account on Wednesday, October 14, Keyamo challenged Atiku’s criticism, citing the liquidation of the defunct national carrier, Nigeria Airways, in September 2004, when Atiku was vice-president under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“Your Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, this is hypocrisy at its peak! Let me just talk only about the sector that I head, Aviation,” Keyamo wrote.

The minister alleged that the liquidation left thousands of airline workers without jobs and that their pensions and gratuities, amounting to billions of naira, remained unpaid for years.

He argued that Atiku could not criticise the current administration over economic hardship without addressing the record of the government in which he served.

Keyamo further claimed that some former Nigeria Airways workers died while waiting for their outstanding entitlements, leaving their families to bear the consequences of the prolonged delay in payment.

According to the minister, President Tinubu had approved and released ₦36 billion to settle the outstanding entitlements owed to the former airline workers.

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Keyamo said payments had begun reaching beneficiaries and claimed that the workers’ union had recognised Tinubu’s intervention.

He presented the payment as evidence that the current administration was addressing an outstanding obligation inherited from previous governments, although the claim about the release and disbursement of the funds was made by the minister.

The aviation minister also accused Atiku of selectively taking credit for the achievements of the Obasanjo administration while distancing himself from decisions that attracted criticism.

“When it is convenient for you, you claim some credit of the Obasanjo-Atiku government and when not convenient, you say Obasanjo was in charge and not you as Vice-President,” he wrote.

Keyamo said younger Nigerians who were unfamiliar with the former vice-president’s political record could be misled by his criticism of the Tinubu administration.

He added that Atiku’s political ambitions should not, in his view, be disguised by what he described as misleading rhetoric.

“The proper posturing of a con artist!” the minister concluded.

The exchange adds to the growing political confrontation between the Tinubu administration and opposition figures as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has repeatedly criticised the Federal Government over the cost of living, insecurity and the impact of its economic policies on households and businesses.

Tinubu’s administration, meanwhile, has defended its economic reforms and highlighted measures it says are intended to address longstanding fiscal challenges and support affected groups.

Keyamo’s latest comments shift the argument from the current administration’s performance to the record of the previous government, particularly its handling of Nigeria Airways and the entitlements owed to the airline’s former employees.

Atiku’s response to Keyamo’s latest allegations was not included in the reports available at the time of publication.

‘Tinubu Is Clearing Your Mess’ – Keyamo Blasts Atiku Over Nigeria Airways

Politics

2027: Adeleke’s Camp Promises 1.5 Million Votes for Tinubu in Osun

Published

1 day ago

October 14, 2026

Trends Admin

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

2027: Adeleke’s Camp Promises 1.5 Million Votes for Tinubu in Osun

The Imole Campaign Council of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has pledged to mobilise 1.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, following the governor’s appointment as the state coordinator of the president’s re-election campaign.

The council, through its Director-General, Senator Olalere Oyewumi, announced the pledge on Tuesday, October 13, while welcoming Adeleke’s inclusion in the revised All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council.

Oyewumi said the political structure of the Accord Party in Osun State would work towards securing Tinubu’s victory, expressing confidence that Adeleke would justify the confidence placed in him by the president.

“The Imole Campaign Council welcomes the appointment of Governor Adeleke as State Coordinator of the PBAT Presidential Campaign Council in Osun,” Oyewumi said.

He described the appointment as well deserved and assured Tinubu that the governor would work towards delivering the state for the president in the forthcoming election.

“We promise the President, just like Governor Adeleke said some time ago, that we will deliver 1.5 million votes to ensure his victory in the coming presidential election,” the council’s director-general said.

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The council also urged Osun residents to continue supporting Adeleke, linking the governor’s administration to Tinubu’s re-election bid.

“Our message to the people of Osun State is to keep trusting and supporting Governor Adeleke as he continues to deliver on his campaign promises. A vote for President Tinubu is a support for Governor Adeleke,” the statement added.

Adeleke’s appointment places him at the centre of Tinubu’s campaign mobilisation in Osun, even though the governor belongs to the Accord Party rather than the ruling APC.

The revised campaign council also names prominent political figures, including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, in key campaign roles.

The appointments indicate an effort to build support for Tinubu beyond the APC’s formal membership as political parties and influential figures position themselves ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a separate development, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has also expressed support for Soludo’s appointment as Anambra coordinator of Tinubu’s presidential campaign.

APGA’s National Publicity Secretary, Ejimofor Opera, said the party had adopted Tinubu as its consensus presidential candidate for the 2027 election, citing its commitment to cooperation with the Federal Government.

The latest political alignments come as parties and campaign organisations begin strengthening their structures ahead of the next presidential contest.

However, the 1.5 million votes promised by Adeleke’s camp remain a campaign target. The actual number of votes Tinubu receives in Osun will depend on voter participation and the choices made by eligible voters on election day.