Vice President Kashim Shettima has cautioned that the federal government will not accept any form of disrespect directed at former President Muhammadu Buhari. He stated that the administration of President Bola Tinubu expects the former leader to be treated with dignity across the country.
Speaking on how the public treats past national leaders, Shettima explained that Buhari’s personal standing and contributions to Nigeria must be handled with decorum and high honour, according to LEADERSHIP Newspapers. He emphasized that the presidency views the former head of state's service as deserving of genuine respect rather than disparagement.
The Vice President stressed that the current administration will actively counter remarks or actions designed to undermine the former leader's public standing. He pointed out that the government is prepared to defend the legacy and reputation of its immediate predecessor.
The warning serves as a direct message to commentators, politicians, and citizens who make derogatory remarks about the former president. While reports did not point to a specific incident that prompted the statement, the declaration underlines the administration's resolve to guard the former president's standing.
Buhari led Nigeria for two consecutive four-year terms between 2015 and 2023 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. His 2015 electoral win was a landmark event in modern Nigerian political history, as he defeated an incumbent president before securing re-election in 2019.
Tinubu and Shettima ran on a joint ticket under the ruling party in the 2023 general election to succeed Buhari. They won the contest and officially assumed office on May 29, 2023, following the conclusion of Buhari's second tenure.
Before becoming Vice President, Shettima served as the governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019. After his tenure as governor, he represented Borno Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
Through the statement, the presidency has signaled that maintaining party harmony and protecting the public image of its founding leaders remains a priority for the government.
