Vice President Kashim Shettima has issued a strong warning to aspirants within the All Progressives Congress (APC), cautioning against actions that could destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a reflective piece titled “2027: Don’t Pull Down the Roof,” Shettima stressed the importance of unity, reminding party members that despite differing ambitions and interests, they all belong to one political family.

He warned that internal divisions, often fueled by misinformation and vested interests, could weaken the party before it even faces opposition. According to him, political actors must resist manipulation designed to create suspicion and unnecessary rivalry among members.

The Vice President highlighted the reality of party primaries, noting that while many aspirants will contest, only one candidate will ultimately emerge. He described this outcome as “the unavoidable arithmetic of democracy,” urging aspirants to accept results in good faith.

Shettima emphasized that true political character is revealed not in victory, but in how individuals handle defeat. He called for maturity, patience, and discipline among aspirants and their supporters, particularly in moments of disappointment.

Addressing the contentious issue of endorsements, he acknowledged that party leaders and stakeholders are entitled to preferences. However, he cautioned that such endorsements must not translate into intimidation, exclusion, or undue influence that could undermine the credibility of the process.

He further urged party leadership to ensure fairness and transparency, stressing that delegates must be allowed to vote freely, while grievances should be handled with justice and clarity to prevent deeper divisions.

Appealing directly to those who may not secure party tickets, Shettima described politics as a long-term journey, encouraging them to remain committed and loyal. He noted that many successful politicians have experienced setbacks before eventually achieving greater opportunities.

The Vice President also called for a reduction in political tension within the party, urging leaders and supporters to prioritize dialogue over conflict and collective responsibility over factional interests.

Referencing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima said his political trajectory exemplifies the values of resilience, coalition-building, and accommodation, which are essential for sustaining democracy.

He concluded with a unifying message, warning that the party risks collective loss if internal conflicts are allowed to escalate.

“The roof over this house shelters all of us. If we pull it down in anger, nobody will be spared by the storm,” he stated.