Southern Kaduna: APC Performed Woefully, Says Vice President Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has openly criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC), admitting that the party performed woefully in Southern Kaduna during past administrations. His remarks, made while addressing party members, seemed to cast a shadow on the leadership of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who has since left the APC for the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Southern Kaduna has long suffered from recurring violence and insecurity, which disrupted daily life for residents, particularly farmers and traders. Under previous administrations, both state and federal, efforts to curb the bloodshed were widely seen as inadequate, drawing heavy criticism from affected communities and observers.

However, recent developments have offered a glimmer of hope. The appointment of General Christopher Gwabin Musa as Chief of Defence Staff by President Bola Tinubu, along with the establishment of a permanent military presence in the region, has contributed to improved security. The Tinubu administration has also approved the establishment of a military barracks in Samaru Kataf, a Federal Medical Center in Kafanchan, and the creation of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia—measures widely seen as steps toward rebuilding trust and stability in the area.

Shettima commended these moves, praising President Tinubu’s inclusive leadership style and willingness to reach across political divides. “He has shown leadership. He has shown magnanimity. He has shown the ability to reach out to the other side of the aisle and embrace all tendencies,” Shettima said.

The region’s troubled history also includes controversy surrounding Bashir El-Rufai, son of the former governor, who faced backlash for comments perceived as insensitive during the peak of the violence. He later issued a public apology following widespread condemnation.

Despite the strides made under the current administration, Shettima acknowledged the political reality on the ground. “You and I know that, in terms of performance, the APC performed woefully in Southern Kaduna, but leadership is about inclusivity,” he stated.