“…This egregious conduct constitutes a grave betrayal of the trust, loyalty, and confidence reposed in genuine members of the APC”
By Emmanuel Kwada
In a fiery and impassioned statement, Dr. Umar D. Duhu, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a staunch supporter of Vice President Kashim Shettima, has publicly condemned Malam Isa Salihu Nataro for what he describes as a “despicable attempt for relevance.”
Nataro, who falsely claimed membership in the APC’s Kebbi State chapter, sparked outrage with a provocative call for Vice President Shettima’s resignation, prompting a swift and resolute response from party loyalists and a broader debate about loyalty, unity, and political accountability in Nigeria.
Dr. Duhu, a founding member of the APC and a vocal advocate for social justice, did not mince words in his denunciation of Nataro’s actions. In a detailed statement released to the press, he labeled Nataro’s call for Shettima’s resignation as “baseless, unfounded, and unpatriotic,” accusing him of orchestrating a calculated bid for notoriety that undermines the core values of the APC.
“This egregious conduct constitutes a grave betrayal of the trust, loyalty, and confidence reposed in genuine members of the APC,” Dr. Duhu declared, emphasizing that Nataro’s actions are “antithetical to the values of discipline, loyalty, and patriotism that our great party espouses.”
The controversy erupted when Nataro, claiming to represent the APC in Kebbi State, issued a public statement urging Vice President Shettima to step down from his position in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Nataro’s actions are antithetical to the values of discipline, loyalty, and patriotism that our great party espouses
The exact reasons behind Nataro’s demand remain unclear, as his statement lacked specific allegations or evidence to substantiate his call. Political analysts suggest that Nataro’s move may be an attempt to capitalize on regional tensions or to position himself as a vocal critic within Nigeria’s complex political landscape. However, the Kebbi State chapter of the APC was quick to distance itself from Nataro, clarifying that he is not a recognized member of the party and does not speak on its behalf.
In a show of unity, the Kebbi APC issued an official statement reaffirming its unwavering support for both President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.
The chapter praised the leadership of the Tinubu administration and condemned Nataro’s remarks as divisive and detrimental to the party’s mission of fostering national unity and progress.
Dr. Duhu commended the Kebbi chapter’s prompt response, noting that it “demonstrates the party’s unshakeable commitment to unity, discipline, and loyalty.” He further urged all APC members to reject Nataro’s “divisive, destructive, and treasonable tactics” and to focus on building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
Dr. Duhu’s statement also took a pointed jab at Nataro’s priorities, suggesting that he redirect his efforts toward addressing pressing issues in Kebbi State, particularly the ongoing security challenges plaguing the region.
“Rather than making statements that can only serve to divide, distract, and destabilize our great nation, Nataro should devote his time and energy to advising the elected officials in Kebbi State on strategies to tackle the security challenges facing his state and region,” Dr. Duhu remarked. Kebbi State, like much of Nigeria’s northwest, has faced significant threats from banditry and insurgent activities, which have displaced communities and strained local governance.
Rather than making statements that can only serve to divide, distract, and destabilize our great nation, Nataro should devote his time and energy to advising the elected officials in Kebbi State on strategies to tackle the security challenges facing his state and region
In a bold escalation, Dr. Duhu called on Nigeria’s security agencies and law enforcement bodies to investigate Nataro’s actions to determine whether they violate national laws and regulations.
“I urge the relevant authorities to take all necessary steps to hold him accountable for his egregious conduct,” he stated, signaling that Nataro’s remarks could have legal repercussions if deemed to incite unrest or undermine the government.
The controversy has reignited discussions about political loyalty and the role of public statements in Nigeria’s polarized political climate. Vice President Shettima, a key figure in the Tinubu administration, has been a polarizing yet influential leader, known for his outspoken views and efforts to bridge regional divides.
I urge the relevant authorities to take all necessary steps to hold him accountable for his egregious conduct
Supporters like Dr. Duhu view him as a critical pillar of the APC’s vision for Nigeria, while critics have occasionally questioned his approach to governance. Nataro’s call for his resignation, however, appears to have backfired, galvanizing APC loyalists and exposing his lack of standing within the party.
As the dust settles, Dr. Duhu’s statement serves as both a defense of Vice President Shettima and a rallying cry for APC unity. “Long live the APC! Long live Vice President Shettima!” he concluded, reaffirming his commitment to the party’s principles and its leadership. The incident underscores the challenges facing Nigeria’s political landscape, where personal ambitions, regional dynamics, and party loyalty often collide.
For now, the APC remains focused on consolidating its support base and addressing national challenges, while Nataro’s bid for relevance has been met with resounding rejection.
As Dr. Duhu emphasized, the path forward lies in unity and constructive engagement, not divisive rhetoric. The nation watches closely as the APC navigates this internal storm, with implications for its cohesion and Nigeria’s broader political future.
Read Also: 2027: Substituting Shettima a Huge Risk That Shouldn’t Be Taken, Dr. Duhu Warns APC
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