The All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima could be replaced as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 general elections. The party called the reports false and without any factual basis.
The speculation emerged from media reports suggesting a possible review of the Muslim–Muslim ticket that helped secure the APC’s victory in the 2023 presidential election. Some reports even mentioned specific individuals as potential replacements for Shettima.
The APC urged media outlets to avoid spreading unverified information that could create division and confusion. The party stated that it is currently focused on governance and not involved in succession discussions at this time. Officials were also warned against making statements that might fuel speculation.
Political observers in northern Nigeria have warned that changing the presidential ticket could affect the party’s support in core northern states. The region’s voters, including those in Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Jigawa, Zamfara, and Sokoto, are influenced by identity, history, and representation in politics, making the area sensitive to changes in political leadership.
The APC reiterated its commitment to supporting Tinubu and Shettima in delivering the administration’s agenda, improving the economy, and enhancing living standards across the country. The party also reaffirmed its call for discipline among ministers, senior government officials, and party leaders to focus on service rather than creating political rumors.
The controversy follows warnings from some party members that replacing Shettima could weaken the APC’s chances in northern states in the 2027 elections, given the importance of maintaining regional and religious balance on the ticket.