By:
Umar Mustapha (Otumba)
Described hilariously by both friends and foes as; The most formidable, most heart-warming, most people oriented political predator, Mr no nonsense, and the best ever Vice-president of the federation of Nigeria. To me, he is an agile, brisk, exemplary leader, and my loyalty is for here.
You can view these descriptive words and praise from whatever perspective you so desire, the positivity enshrined in his life and times has well over-shadowed the primitive intents of some ill-advised highly Institutionalized unpalatable in the countries political caricature. Sen. Kashim SHETTIMA, The most Vice President of the Nigerian State, who was an astute Banker, an icon of Business and a politician with the Lau de cum Political emblem.
This celebrated laureate actively started his political sojourn and was sworn in as Governor in May 2011. His then political God-father Gov. Ali Modu Sheriff easily saw, recognized and acknowledged the inherent political talents in the Young. Kashim, a vibrant yet futuristic realist, wasted no time in preparing him for greater political responsibilities. Sen. Kashim’s level of Cognitive development and Intelligence, capacity to manage human and material resources are for the most part unquestionable.
After he emerged as the Governor of Borno without any rancor, and successfully completed his eight years tenor, which was marked by physical development strides, Youth engagement and upliftment, human capital development, rehabilitation and reconstruction, despite the activities of the dreaded Boko Haram bandits that ravaged the State leaving huge scares.
In the socioeconomic, political and psychological spheres. Within this period, and owing to his desire to free the people of Borno from the shackles of lawlessness and tyranny, Kashim SHETTIMA went down in history as the only Governor to have openly challenged the nonchalant attitude of President Goodluck Jonathan towards the security situation in Borno.
This singular act further bolted him into the National Political lime light. Therefore, his emergence as a Running mate in the last election, and subsequently Vice President of the Federation of Nigeria was not surprising to most political pundits. Within the short period this Government exercised power, Kashim SHETTIMA exemplified his political prowess through adequate representation both in local and at the International fora.
He effortlessly helped his boss President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in stabilizing especially his geo-political zone of the North East, and largely Northern Nigeria. Presently, the whispers in political circles are that after the eight years tenor of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sen. Kashim SHETTIMA is the man to watch. His academic as well as political credentials are first among equals. Additionally, he is well experienced in Governance, therefore building the blocks of continuity where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stops will be an achievable task.
It is worthy to mention that political arc rivals are and will continue to be an impediment by playing dirty. While some may be jealous of the rising political prowess of Kashim SHETTIMA, others see him as a stumbling block to their future. Either way, Kashim SHETTIMA remains resolute, committed and focused in achieving the set goals under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. These temptations will not deter or dislocate the paradigms of the set objectives. Those involved in these unpatriotic activities should be conscious of these life based facts.
1. Destiny is sacrosanct and highly in- susceptible to sentiments.
2. Leadership is mundane, those anointed must be seen and accepted as such.
3. Political, social changes and or replacements can only occur when and only when He that destined them reckons so.
4. What is meant for you will never miss you irrespective of the efforts of detractors. Conversely, what is not meant for you will never come your way in spite of all desperate efforts. The Nation is proud of you Mr Vice President. For these and other related reasons, my loyalty here has not and will not be shaken by a single iota. The indisputable workaholic Vice President of Nigeria. We shall stick to you until you free this country from the shackles of misrule.
Mustapha was Adamawa gubernatorial candidate, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC). From Abuja he wrote this