Adebayo Shittu’s Political Aspirations and Reflections on Nigerian Politics
Adebayo Shittu, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of Communications, harbors ambitious political aspirations centered on the governorship of Oyo State. While currently serving as the Pro-Chancellor of Dave Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences in Ebonyi State, an appointment he accepted despite desiring a more executive role, Shittu remains deeply engaged in politics. He dismisses suggestions that his current position is a compensatory reward for Tinubu’s electoral victory, emphasizing his extensive political experience and desire to implement Awolowo’s progressive governance model in Oyo State. His focus is on free education, free healthcare, comprehensive infrastructure development, and full employment – foundational principles he believes will benefit the ordinary citizen.
Shittu’s gubernatorial ambition pits him against the incumbent Governor Seyi Makinde, whom Shittu criticizes for attempting to handpick a successor. Confident in divine intervention in political affairs, Shittu believes God ultimately determines leadership and trusts that his own aspirations will be realized. He advocates for rotational governance in Oyo State, noting the historical dominance of Ibadan indigenes in the governorship and urging for inclusivity to foster a sense of belonging among other regions. He highlights the potential for discontent if this imbalance persists and suggests that Oke-Ogun, with its significant population, should be considered for the next governorship.
Shittu also weighs in on national political dynamics, including the controversy surrounding the Muslim-Muslim ticket fielded by President Tinubu. Acknowledging concerns raised by Christians about potential marginalization, Shittu expresses faith in Tinubu’s fairness and notes the diverse range of political appointments across various regions. He addresses criticisms regarding the alleged abandonment of the North by the Tinubu administration, particularly the grievances voiced by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. While affirming Tinubu’s equitable treatment of the North, Shittu underscores El-Rufai’s pivotal role in securing northern support for Tinubu’s presidency and advocates for reconciliation and inclusion of El-Rufai in the government. He believes neglecting such a key ally could prove detrimental to the administration.
Regarding other dissatisfied figures within the APC, Shittu offers individual assessments. He dismisses Rotimi Amaechi’s complaints about Tinubu’s primary victory as sour grapes from a sore loser, while acknowledging a personal friendship. He criticizes Babachir Lawal for his vocal opposition to the Muslim-Muslim ticket, reminding him of Tinubu’s past support and emphasizing the strategic importance of Shettima’s selection in securing victory. He believes their grievances stem from personal disappointments and a lack of understanding of the strategic imperatives of the election.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, Shittu expresses optimism about Tinubu’s chances, citing his social programs and infrastructure projects as factors that will garner support. While acknowledging the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians due to fuel subsidy removal, he predicts improving economic conditions and emphasizes the transformative potential of major infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Lagos-Sokoto Expressway. He dismisses speculation about these projects being conduits for corruption, emphasizing their developmental benefits and long-term impact on economic growth.
Shittu downplays the threat posed by the opposition, arguing that parties like the PDP and Labour Party are in disarray. He questions Peter Obi’s continued relevance and doubts his ability to secure the Labour Party’s presidential nomination in 2027, noting internal party divisions and the dwindling Obidient movement. He believes Obi’s moment has passed and his influence is waning.
Finally, Shittu addresses the issue of unpaid nomination fees from the 2022 APC National Convention, where he and other aspirants were persuaded to step down with the promise of refunds. He confirms the party’s failure to honor this commitment and calls for reimbursement, asserting that it is a moral imperative. However, despite his personal financial loss, he affirms his loyalty to the party and maintains his focus on securing the APC’s governorship ticket in Oyo State, foregoing legal action against the party. He also addresses the rumored favoritism towards Adebayo Adelabu by the party chairman, Ganduje, expressing concerns about the potential negative repercussions of imposing a candidate from Ibadan again, especially given the rising calls for rotational governance. He cautions the party against repeating past mistakes that led to internal divisions and electoral setbacks.
