Alhaji Shettima Yerima, the National Leader of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, has voiced his reservations about Bola Tinubu’s leadership in light of current developments in Nigerian politics. Yerima, who was a pro-democracy activist and former Youth Director of the political pressure group NADECO, expressed concerns that the Bola Tinubu of today, in a position of power in the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, may not be the same person who once fought for democracy alongside others.
Yerima, who played a role in the struggle against the military junta of late General Sani Abacha in the early 90s, noted that he and others who championed democracy now have doubts about Tinubu. He emphasized the need to ensure that the president has not been influenced by the “Aso Rock Cabal,” a reference to powerful figures behind the scenes who may have undue influence on the presidency.
Specifically, Yerima raised concerns about some of the appointments made by President Tinubu, which he believes neglect the interests of the youth in favor of older, established figures. He expressed the hope that the president would prioritize the current generation over those who had worked with him in the past and have a history of influence in government.
Yerima warned that the president should learn from the experiences of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, who was surrounded by individuals that, in his opinion, restricted his effectiveness while in office from 2015 to 2023.
The youth leader emphasized that the current administration, which he referred to as “our government,” should live up to expectations and fulfill the aspirations of the Nigerian people. He also revealed his past involvement in supporting Tinubu’s presidential bid.
These statements from Alhaji Shettima Yerima highlight the complex and evolving dynamics of Nigerian politics, where political leaders and their actions are subject to scrutiny and ongoing assessment by various stakeholders.