Barrister Melah Ibrahim Yusuf Maimuruchi, a well-known attorney and young leader, has entered the northeastern dispute regarding President Bola Ahmad Tinubu’s support without mentioning his vice president, Kashim Shettima.
Recall that the endorsement sparked a contentious debate when several attendees expressed their displeasure, claiming that because it was a joint ticket, the endorsement should have come from Tinubu and Shettima.
Melah, a well-known youth leader, entered the debate and contended that it would be improper to force Shettima on the president just because he selected her to run alongside him.
According to the middle belt youth leader, it’s the turn of the middle belt to run with president Tinubu and not the birth right of any zone or individual.
In a statement he personally signed, he argued that “leadership is not an entitlement, nor is it obtained by coercion. No deputy, vice, or assistant has the moral or political right to force themselves upon a principal.”
He wrote, “The recent meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Northeast Stakeholders Forum in Gombe brought to light a development that has stirred significant political conversations nationwide. Chief among these was the public endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term — a move that, notably, did not mention the vice president, thus fueling growing speculation that the president may be considering a change in his running mate.Although responses to this omission, including regrettable incidents of violence, have garnered attention, it is imperative to remind all parties involved that leadership is not a right nor something that can be acquired through pressure. No assistant, vice, or deputy has the political or moral authority to impose themselves on a principal. In uncertain times, true loyalty is put to the test, and any subordinate who tries to force their will instead of serving with grace and humility creates suspicions of disloyalty and self-interest. Any leader should be wary of such conduct.More significantly, the emphasis needs to change from personal aspirations to national inclusion and stability. My main interest, as a Northerner and patriotic Middle Beltan, is not the vice president but rather the regional justice and national cohesion the position entails. If President Tinubu decides to alter the vice president, he has the constitutional right and wisdom to do so, but he cannot do so at the expense of Northeast representation or, worse, Northern marginalization.
“Instead, such a pivotal decision should be an opportunity to deepen the bonds of national integration. The Middle Belt, with its rich diversity and unique role as Nigeria’s bridge between North and South, is best positioned to step into this space. Selecting a Vice President from the Middle Belt would be a bold and unifying gesture — a clear message that the administration is committed to reconciliation, equity, and nation-building.
“President Tinubu has so far demonstrated remarkable political maturity in balancing the interests of various groups across the country. Appointing a Middle Beltan as vice president would only affirm his legacy as a bridge-builder and a leader with a deep understanding of Nigeria’s complex socio-political fabric.
“In light of this, it is my sincere hope that even Vice President Kashim Shettima, should such a transition be contemplated, will rise above personal interest to support a decision that advances national harmony,” Melah stated, highlighting national harmony as the rationale for his request. Individual ambition must never take precedence over the survival and advancement of our nation.
“Regional rivalry or political gamesmanship are not appropriate at this time. A Middle Belt-based vice president would be a brilliant move for peace, development, and unification at this time of need for statesmanship.
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