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SEN, Kashim Shettima: A Testament to Democratic Tolerance and Respect for Free Expression

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By Hamza N Dantani Esq

One virtue you can never take away from His Excellency, Kashim Shettima, my and your Vice President, is his rare ability to overlook criticism and hostility. For him, criticism, no matter how harsh, is part of the journey toward a successful and enduring democracy.

I vividly recall a time when opposition figures and enemies of democratic progress deliberately spread falsehoods, alleging that Kashim Shettima had links with or was sponsoring Boko Haram. The misinformation went as far as attempts to maliciously associate one of his aides during his tenure as Governor of Borno State.

Despite the gravity of these allegations, he chose restraint over retaliation. He neither responded nor dignified the accusations with public rebuttals.

Numerous false claims were thrown at him, yet he consistently maintained silence and composure.
I also remember the incident during the NBA Conference in Lagos in the build-up to the 2023 general elections, when Kashim Shettima represented Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Rather than engaging with the substance of his presentation or the purpose of his presence, some individuals resorted to insults, mocking his attire rather than addressing his ideas. Even then, he refused to respond, and despite his influence and resources, he did not drag anyone before the police or any designated law enforcement agencies or courts.

Throughout his journey as a vice-presidential aspirant, Kashim Shettima endured relentless abuse, insults, and misrepresentations. Yet at no point did he attempt to intimidate critics or weaponize security agencies to arrest or file frivolous charges against anyone.

After emerging victorious as Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he continued to maintain a peaceful and respectful relationship with Nigerians, notwithstanding persistent hostility, the controversy surrounding the Muslim–Muslim ticket, and ongoing verbal attacks.

Indeed, this is a man who has endured false allegations, defamation, abuse, and cyberbullying, yet none of these diminished his integrity or reputation. Today, he stands tall, reputable, and globally respected. His voice carries weight, his intellect commands attention, and above all, he understands human feelings and democratic values.

Remarkably, despite serving for eight years as Governor of Borno State and later as a Senator, Kashim Shettima never unduly interfered in the affairs of state leadership after his tenure. He never projected himself as the “alpha and omega” of Borno politics.

Kashim Shettima is deeply respected because of his unwavering commitment to human rights, particularly the right to freedom of expression.

I recall an incident where someone used vulgar language and cyberbullied the Vice President on a public platform. Provoked, I contacted one of his close associates, expressing my intention to initiate legal action. To my greatest surprise, I was advised otherwise. I was told: “There is no point taking this matter further. Let him express his opinion however he chooses. The Vice President has more important responsibilities. Do not give critics the honor they seek.”

That response shocked me and taught me invaluable lessons.

Sometimes, especially as a public office holder entrusted with the people’s confidence, not every provocation warrants a response, and not every insult warrants action. Leadership often lies in restraint, patience, and a deep respect for democratic freedoms.

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National Trail Mourns Pioneer Editor, Abdulazeez Suleiman

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Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihir-Raji’un.

The Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of , Hon. Inuwa Bwala, on behalf of the management and staff, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran journalist and pioneer editor of the newspaper, Abdulazeez Suleiman.
Bwala also extended condolences to Suleiman’s family, associates and the Nigerian media industry, describing his passing as a monumental loss at a time his experience, courage and service to the nation were still greatly needed.
Suleiman reportedly died shortly before a scheduled surgery.
A pioneer editor of National Trail Newspaper, Abdulazeez Suleiman was regarded as a thoroughbred journalist with a remarkable talent for breaking exclusive stories and shaping public discourse through responsible journalism.
Throughout his distinguished career, he worked with notable media organisations, including National Trail Newspaper, Daily Trust, Summit and The Road. He earned widespread admiration for fearless reporting, ethical conduct and unwavering commitment to professionalism.
His writings and public interventions consistently reflected deep concern for justice, peace, accountability and national unity.

Beyond journalism, Suleiman was widely respected as a bridge-builder who strongly believed in dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse peoples. He remained steadfast in his conviction that truth and justice are essential pillars for national progress.

Though his voice has now gone silent, the values and ideals he stood for will continue to inspire generations. His legacy as a principled journalist, advocate and patriot will endure in the hearts of many whose lives he touched through his work and humanity.
The management and staff of National Trail Newspaper prayed Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus and comfort his family, friends, colleagues and members of the in this moment of grief.
Rest in peace, Abdulazeez Suleiman. Your service and legacy will not be forgotten.

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JUST IN: After Primary Election Victory, Shehu Sani Visits Parents’ Graves to Offer Prayers and Express Gratitude to God

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Following his victory in the party primary election, Senator Shehu Sani visited the graves of his parents to pray and give thanks to Almighty God.

The former senator described the visit as very important to him, noting that his parents played a significant role in his upbringing and in shaping his political life.

Shehu Sani prayed for Allah to forgive his parents and all deceased Muslims, while also reaffirming his commitment to continue serving the people with honesty and integrity after securing victory in the primaries.

The gesture has attracted attention from his supporters and social media users, many of whom praised his act of remembering his parents after a political success.

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National Trail Mourns Pioneer Editor, Abdulazeez Suleiman

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on

Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihir-Raji’un.

The Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of , Hon. Inuwa Bwala, on behalf of the management and staff, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran journalist and pioneer editor of the newspaper, Abdulazeez Suleiman.
Bwala also extended condolences to Suleiman’s family, associates and the Nigerian media industry, describing his passing as a monumental loss at a time his experience, courage and service to the nation were still greatly needed.
Suleiman reportedly died shortly before a scheduled surgery.
A pioneer editor of National Trail Newspaper, Abdulazeez Suleiman was regarded as a thoroughbred journalist with a remarkable talent for breaking exclusive stories and shaping public discourse through responsible journalism.
Throughout his distinguished career, he worked with notable media organisations, including National Trail Newspaper, Daily Trust, Summit and The Road. He earned widespread admiration for fearless reporting, ethical conduct and unwavering commitment to professionalism.
His writings and public interventions consistently reflected deep concern for justice, peace, accountability and national unity.

Beyond journalism, Suleiman was widely respected as a bridge-builder who strongly believed in dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse peoples. He remained steadfast in his conviction that truth and justice are essential pillars for national progress.

Though his voice has now gone silent, the values and ideals he stood for will continue to inspire generations. His legacy as a principled journalist, advocate and patriot will endure in the hearts of many whose lives he touched through his work and humanity.
The management and staff of National Trail Newspaper prayed Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus and comfort his family, friends, colleagues and members of the in this moment of grief.
Rest in peace, Abdulazeez Suleiman. Your service and legacy will not be forgotten.

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