Shettima Reveals Alleged Plot to Turn Tinubu Against Him Over Traditional Outfits
Shettima Reveals Alleged Plot to Turn Tinubu Against Him Over Traditional Outfits
Vice President Kashim Shettima has disclosed that some unnamed individuals allegedly attempted to portray him as a threat to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu barely three months after they were sworn into office in 2023.
Shettima made the revelation during the public presentation of My Life of Duty and Allegiance, the autobiography of former Head of State Yakubu Gowon, held in Abuja.
According to the Vice President, the incident stemmed from traditional northern outfits and caps he sourced for Tinubu during the 2023 APC presidential campaign to help strengthen the President’s connection with northern voters.
Shettima explained that the outfits were widely admired during the campaign period, but shortly after their inauguration, some individuals from Borno State allegedly approached President Tinubu with claims that the clothes were spiritually dangerous and part of a plot to eliminate him and take over power.
Recounting the incident, Shettima said President Tinubu summoned him and jokingly remarked: “Sit down! Your people came to me and said I should stop wearing your clothes.”
The Vice President noted that Tinubu immediately dismissed the allegation, insisting the accusation made no sense because the outfits had been gifted long before both men emerged as presidential running mates.
According to Shettima, the President continued wearing the traditional attires despite the claims, demonstrating confidence and refusal to entertain divisive narratives or political suspicion.
Shettima said the experience highlighted the dangers of false accusations, divisive politics, and attempts to sow distrust among political allies. He urged Nigerians to embrace unity, mutual trust, and peaceful coexistence rather than promoting sentiments capable of deepening national divisions.
The Vice President also emphasized the importance of loyalty, tolerance, and national unity in governance, especially at a time when the country requires collective efforts to overcome political and economic challenges.
