What was meant to be a strategic political gathering turned into a scene of chaos on Sunday, as a consultative meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) North-East zone in Gombe ended in a violent scuffle over the controversial endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027 — with Vice President Kashim Shettima notably snubbed in the process.
The closed-door meeting, held in Gombe State’s capital, gathered key political players from the North-East, including Governors Babagana Zulum (Borno), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ali Bukar Dalori, and hundreds of party stakeholders.
Tension boiled over when Comrade Mustapha Salihu, the APC National Vice Chairman for the North-East, addressed the forum and endorsed President Tinubu for re-election in 2027 — but conspicuously left out Vice President Shettima’s name.
That silence was interpreted by many as a calculated political slight.
Barely had Salihu finished his speech when anger erupted across the room. Delegates began shouting and hurling insults, accusing him of disloyalty and betrayal. The situation escalated so quickly that security agents had to intervene and escort Salihu out to prevent physical assault.
Sources at the event revealed that some party members felt the omission was a deliberate attempt to sideline Shettima in future political arrangements — especially in his home region.
The uproar eventually turned physical, with some attendees engaging in heated confrontations before security operatives restored order. Despite the tension, the meeting continued, and the endorsement of President Tinubu moved forward — with or without consensus.
In his remarks, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, attempted to calm nerves by focusing on the achievements of the current administration. He applauded Tinubu’s government for progress in healthcare, education, youth and women empowerment, and broader economic development.
The unfolding tension in the APC’s North-East camp points to deeper cracks within the party’s leadership, especially ahead of the 2027 election. While Tinubu’s endorsement has been pushed forward by top party leaders, the backlash over Shettima’s exclusion may signal a brewing political rebellion that could shake the party’s power structure in the coming months.
🕯️ An update is expected as intra-party reconciliation efforts intensify.
