APC Quells Rumours of Tinubu-Shettima Rift Ahead of 2027, Reaffirms Unity in Presidential Ticket

Amidst swirling speculation over a possible shake-up in the presidency ahead of the 2027 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly dismissed rumours that President Bola Tinubu may sideline Vice President Kashim Shettima. Party leaders have described such claims as baseless political noise aimed at sowing discord within the administration and destabilising the party’s growing momentum.

“Shettima Is a Key Asset to This Government”

Speaking through its National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the APC made it clear that the Tinubu-Shettima alliance remains intact and effective. Reacting to the emerging narrative, Arodiogbu said, “I’m hearing that for the first time. There’s a solid working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.”

He emphasized Shettima’s strategic role in governance, describing him as “intelligent, focused, and deeply involved in this administration,” and reaffirmed that both leaders are aligned in their vision for Nigeria’s development.

“These rumours are likely just political noise meant to create division,” he added, warning against distractions as the party remains focused on delivering its electoral promises.

Barau Jibrin, APC Supporters Endorse Tinubu’s Second Term, Hail Federal University In Kano

Speculation Fueled by Tinubu’s Sole Endorsement for 2027

Talks of Vice President Shettima being dropped surfaced shortly after a high-profile endorsement of President Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate of the APC for the 2027 election. The endorsement was initiated at the APC National Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.

Led by Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, and seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, the endorsement was quickly supported by other power players. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, speaking for the National Assembly, joined in backing Tinubu’s candidacy based on what they described as “a track record of performance.”

Dr. Umar Ganduje, the APC National Chairman, also confirmed the endorsement, stating that the National Working Committee (NWC) stands behind Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate in the upcoming polls.

Opposition and Internal Criticism Over Sole Candidacy

While the endorsement was celebrated within the party’s core base, it was not without backlash. Critics, including former APC presidential aspirant Charles Udeogaranya, accused the party of suppressing internal democracy by pushing for an uncontested candidacy.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Udeogaranya argued that “Bypassing a competitive primary in 2027 would deprive other aspirants of the opportunity to offer Nigerians a more visionary and effective leadership.”

The statement stirred debate on the future of democratic processes within the APC, even as the party attempted to project unity in preparation for the next electoral cycle.

North-Central Voices Demand Representation

Adding to the complexity, discontent has been brewing within the North Central region, which claims marginalisation under the current administration. On April 5, a pressure group known as the North-Central Renaissance Movement began consultations with political heavyweights to demand either a vice-presidential slot or the presidency in 2027.

Led by Professor Nghargbu K’tso, the group visited prominent figures including former NSA General Aliyu Gusau and Senator John Danboyi, as well as traditional rulers like the Onah of Abaji, Alhaji Musa Baba Yunusa. K’tso asserted, “We have what it takes to lead and not just to be led,” calling on the region to resist any political arrangements that exclude them from executive power.

This push has intensified speculation that Shettima, who hails from the North East, may be replaced to appease the North Central bloc—a key voting constituency that the APC may seek to strengthen ahead of 2027.

APC Leadership Maintains Status Quo

However, APC insiders continue to stress that there is no concrete plan to alter the current ticket. Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, offered a curt reply to inquiries about Shettima’s status, saying, “I am not aware, Sir.”

Echoing Arodiogbu’s stance, the party’s Deputy National Organising Secretary, Chidi Duru, affirmed that no change is officially being considered. “That’s the President’s prerogative, but as of now, there is no reason to believe a switch is being considered,” he stated.

Despite rising political tension and the typical manoeuvring associated with pre-election seasons, party officials maintain that Tinubu and Shettima remain a formidable team—one that delivered victory in 2023 and is focused on governance.

Conclusion: Rumours Dismissed, Focus on Governance

As Nigeria gears up for another political season, the APC is striving to project cohesion and clarity amidst a whirlwind of speculation. While intra-party democracy and regional representation continue to be pressing topics, party leaders insist that unity between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remains unshaken.

Whether this unity will hold in the face of regional demands and shifting political alliances remains to be seen. But for now, the APC is focused on governance, with 2027 still on the distant horizon.