Vice President Kashim Shettima Says Defections to APC Expose Cracks in Opposition, Strengthen Ruling Party

Kashim Shettima, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has declared that the growing wave of political defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) demonstrates the deep fractures within opposition parties while reinforcing the APC’s internal unity. Speaking through his official handle, @officialSKSM, Shettima emphasized that the movement of key political figures across party lines signifies a renewed faith in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and the #RenewedHope agenda.

Kashim Shettima stated that the influx of political figures into the APC was not a coincidence but a reflection of the party’s broad-based appeal across Nigeria’s diverse political spectrum. He noted that the APC had deliberately positioned itself as a national movement built on inclusion, competence, and collective responsibility rather than regional or ethnic identity.

Kashim Shettima described the APC’s growing membership as a product of deliberate political strategy anchored on dialogue, partnership, and reconciliation. “The bridges we are building across regions and ideologies are stronger than ever before,” he said, stressing that the APC is fast becoming the rallying point for progressive Nigerians committed to national stability.

Kashim Shettima also highlighted that the Renewed Hope administration’s governance model — which prioritizes economic recovery, infrastructural renewal, and youth empowerment — has inspired confidence among political leaders seeking credible platforms for service. “People are joining us not because we are perfect, but because they believe in our vision,” he said.

Kashim Shettima Says Opposition Parties Are Facing Internal Collapse

Kashim Shettima observed that the string of defections is symptomatic of an ongoing identity crisis within Nigeria’s major opposition blocs. He argued that the inability of these parties to manage internal dissent, establish ideological clarity, or build cohesive leadership structures has weakened their relevance in the current political climate.

Kashim Shettima emphasized that the collapse of discipline within opposition ranks is making the APC the preferred platform for politicians seeking stability and direction. “Our opponents are bleeding from self-inflicted wounds,” he said. “They have become victims of their own disunity, while we continue to grow stronger.”

Kashim Shettima also noted that democracy thrives when strong parties compete on the basis of ideas, not bitterness. He urged opposition leaders to rebuild rather than resort to constant criticism, asserting that a vibrant democracy requires credible alternatives to the ruling party — but those alternatives must be organized, visionary, and disciplined.

Kashim Shettima Calls for Consolidation of APC’s Gains Ahead of 2027

Kashim Shettima cautioned APC members against complacency despite recent gains. He said that the ongoing wave of defections should not be seen merely as a political triumph but as a call to deepen internal reforms and maintain ideological integrity. “We must not take our unity for granted,” he said. “The APC should remain the home of progressive governance and ethical leadership.”

Kashim Shettima encouraged the party’s leadership at all levels to continue fostering trust among members, resolve disputes amicably, and deliver tangible results that justify public confidence. “Every defection is a vote of confidence, but it also comes with the responsibility to do better,” he said.

Kashim Shettima concluded by reaffirming his commitment to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision, emphasizing that the administration’s achievements in economic stabilization, infrastructure, and social investment programs will continue to attract national support. “Our story is still being written,” he remarked. “It is a story of hope, unity, and renewal for the Nigerian people.”