Hours after the violent kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi, Nigeria’s ruling party, led by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, gathered together to celebrate in Kogi. The mass abduction evoked memories of the 2014 kidnapping of Chibok schoolgirls by the ruthless Boko Haram terrorists.

“We are gathered to celebrate the confluence of progressives. We are gathered to welcome men and women who have chosen unity over suspicion and stability over the politics of perpetuating conflict,” said Mr Shettima, who hails from Boko Haram-ravaged Borno. “What we are witnessing is the triumph of vision and the reaffirmation of mission purpose. I’m honoured to share in the joy of this year.”

“Lokoja, where two of our most famous rivers meet to become one powerful force. Lokoja has always offered as a perfect metaphor of what is unfolding before our eyes today,” Mr Shettima said.

Mr Shettima was representing President Bola Tinubu at the political event.

Mr Shettima stated this in Lokoja when he formally received former Governor Idris Wada and other prominent politicians into the APC. He said the decision of the “elder statesman and partner in building a stronger Nigeria” to join the party was driven by national interest rather than personal interest.

“This is not a victory of one ego over another. What we are witnessing is an alignment with a broader national vision and a platform of stability,” he said.

A statement by Stanley Nkwocha, spokesperson for the vice-president, announcing Mr Shettima’s trip to Kogi for a political rally amid reports of mass abduction of the Kebbi schoolgirls was pulled down on X following public outrage.

A video of Mr Shettima at the rally celebrating the reception of defectors has gone viral.