2027 Elections: Tinubu May Replace Shettima as Running Mate Amid Party Pressure

Amid rising political tension within the All Progressives Congress (APC), speculation is mounting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may reconsider Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

Sources within the ruling party suggest that internal reviews are underway regarding Tinubu’s 2027 ticket, with several APC stakeholders pushing for strategic realignment. Below are three primary reasons why Shettima might be replaced:

1. Religious Balancing Pressure: President Tinubu, a Muslim from the southwest, paired with another Muslim—Kashim Shettima from the northeast—on the 2023 ticket, a decision that drew widespread backlash. Some northern APC stakeholders are now advocating for a Christian vice-presidential candidate to broaden electoral appeal in 2027 and correct the perceived religious imbalance.

2. North Central’s Political Demands: Power blocs within the north-central zone have been lobbying for representation at the presidency’s top level. The North Central Renaissance Movement, led by Prof. Nghargbu K’tso, recently threatened to withdraw support for Tinubu if their demand for a vice-presidential slot is ignored. Their argument is rooted in historical marginalization and heightened insecurity in the region.

3. Declining Influence of Vice President Shettima: There are growing concerns among APC insiders that Shettima’s political weight may be diminishing, especially as the party prepares for a competitive 2027 election. Critics argue that his influence has waned within key circles and may not provide the same electoral strength as in 2023.

Despite these speculations, APC chieftain and former Board of Trustees member Ismaeel Ahmed dismissed the rumours, calling them “malicious” and without substance. He insisted that there is no rift between Tinubu and Shettima, and any talk of replacing the vice president is unfounded.

As 2027 draws nearer, internal maneuvering within the APC suggests that Tinubu’s strategy could evolve, particularly as regional and religious considerations take center stage in Nigeria’s complex political landscape.