A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Prince Dele Oyelude, has described Vice President Kashim Shettima as the most loyal in Nigeria’s political history, cautioning against any attempt to undermine or replace him.
Oyelude, who serves as the Director General of the Tinubu-Shettima Ambassadors, made this known during an interview on Sunday, where he stated that Shettima’s loyalty, calmness, and competence have become defining strengths of the current administration.
According to him, the Vice President has consistently demonstrated a rare level of commitment to both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ideals of the APC.
“Vice President Kashim Shettima is the most loyal, calm and resourceful Vice President in the history of Nigeria.
Those calling for his replacement are enemies of the All Progressives Congress and the good governance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
He traced Shettima’s political journey, describing it as one marked by dedication and integrity. As the 15th Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Shettima’s experience includes a tenure as Governor of Borno State—succeeding Senator Ali Modu Sheriff—and later as a federal lawmaker in the Nigerian Senate. Oyelude argued that this track record reinforces his suitability and loyalty in his current role.
“A core progressive party leader with track records across the board. He was an exceptional professional in the banking sector before joining politics. His experience in the banking sector has helped his political journey to be a loyal leader,” he added.
Oyelude urged the presidency to maintain the productive working relationship between Tinubu and Shettima, insisting that their joint leadership is crucial to the nation’s progress and to the survival of the ruling party. He warned against internal distractions and political maneuvering that could fracture the current harmony.
He said, “Tinubu-Shettima combination is intimidating and a threat to any political opponent to defeat. Their experience as both former Governor and Senator is reflected in a smooth, progressive, and productive administration. Kashim Shettima should not be replaced. He is a perfect match for APC victory and Nigeria’s greatness.”
The APC chieftain claimed that the strength of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket has already unsettled opposition parties, describing them as politically disoriented by what he called an “intimidating fusion.”
“Opposition parties are threatened at the mention of Tinubu-Shettima. The fear of this intimidating fusion has scattered the major opposition party and sent the coalition party on a journey of no return,” he said.
While acknowledging the recent push within the APC for open primaries ahead of the 2027 presidential election, Oyelude cautioned against disrupting a winning formula. He insisted that the Tinubu-Shettima partnership remains the most viable option for the party’s continued dominance and for restoring national pride.
“I read of the national party leadership of the APC calling for an open primary contest ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Though democratic, there is no perfect force as Tinubu-Shettima that can shatter the house of the opposition coalition and completely restore the glory of Nigeria. None of them should be changed,” Oyelude concluded.
