According to a report by Premium Times on Monday, April 13, 2026, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has responded to remarks attributed to Vice President Kashim Shettima, rejecting a public challenge that questioned his performance while in office.
The exchange has drawn attention following comments reportedly made by Mr Shettima regarding Atiku’s record during his tenure as vice president.
Atiku made it clear that he would not respond directly to the challenge, describing the manner in which it was presented as inappropriate.
He suggested that the approach taken by the vice president did not align with expected standards of respect, particularly within the context of Northern Nigerian traditions and social norms.
The disagreement arose after reports indicated that Mr Shettima had asked Atiku to list eight developmental projects he executed in Northern Nigeria during his eight years in office.
In addition, the vice president was said to have requested that Atiku name eight individuals he had empowered during the same period.
In his reaction, Atiku spoke during an interview on Sunday in a conversation featured on the GTA Hausa podcast.
The programme, hosted by Yusuf Harande, provided the platform for the former vice president to address the issue and explain his position on the matter.
Atiku emphasized that his background and experience, particularly his long service in the civil service, set him apart in terms of seniority.
He argued that engaging in such a public exchange would not be appropriate given his standing and the expectations associated with his level of experience.
He also pointed to cultural considerations, stating that traditions in Northern Nigeria place a high value on respect for elders.
According to him, such norms discourage younger individuals from openly challenging or confronting those who are older or more experienced in public settings.
“It is not part of our tradition in the North to disrespect elders. You cannot look at someone who is senior to you in both age and accomplishments and start taunting him. That is not our tradition, so I won’t engage with him,” Atiku added….See More
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