Yoruba Forum condemns ‘opposition forces trying to sow discord between Tinubu, Shettima’

The Yoruba Youth Progressive Forum (YYPF) has condemned opposition forces who are attempting to “sow discord between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima”.

Addressing a gathering of youths and stakeholders at a press conference in Lagos, the YYPF alleged that there are “unfounded rumours, speculative assertions, and politically engineered fallacies” to pit the president and his vice president against each other.

The forum praised Shettima for his “unalloyed loyalty” to Tinubu, saying the vice-president’s selection in 2023 was a pivotal decision for Nigeria’s progress.

The group said Shettima’s loyalty predated his vice presidency when he boldly championed a southern presidential candidate before the 2023 presidential election.

This decision, the forum argued, showcased Shettima’s dedication to national interest over regional sentiments, setting a precedent for unity and cooperation.

“Even long before 2023, when others hesitated and doubted, he stood boldly behind the candidature of Ahmed Tinubu, believing in his capacity and defending his credibility with political bravery,” the YYPF said.

“We denounce the cheap attempts by some political desperadoes to stir discontent between the presidency and the vice presidency.

“A silence is not weakness, but wisdom. A composure that’s not detachment, but discipline.”

Highlighting Shettima’s contributions, the YYPF underscored his role as an indispensable ally to Tinubu, from policy formulation to political coordination within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Reports from within the APC and across the National Executive Council continue to validate his place as a key strategist, a voice of reason, and a loyal steward of the Tinubu mandate,” the forum said.

“He has proven that politics can be principled, and that one can rise through the ranks not by betrayal, but by consistency and strategic alignment.

“Those who are determined to distort the image of the Vice President with malicious narratives are enemies of national progress. They must desist or risk being publicly exposed for their treacherous schemes.

“What we are witnessing is a strategic President who has found in Shettima a vice who is not competing for glory but complementing his vision.”

The forum clarified that its commendation was not driven by ethnic bias or political gain but by a “factual appraisal” of Shettima’s character and competence, which they said transcended tribal boundaries.