‎2027 Elections: APC Chieftain Warns Against Dropping Shettima, Says Move Could Undermine Tinubu’s Re-Election Bid

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and security expert, Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has cautioned the ruling party against any move to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such a decision could weaken President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election prospects.

‎Mumuni, a former member of the Intelligence and Security Team of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) during the 2023 presidential election, described ongoing speculations about a possible change in the vice-presidential slot as politically risky and potentially destabilising.

‎He spoke on Wednesday while reacting to the controversy generated by the alleged omission of Vice President Shettima’s photograph from a banner displayed at the North-East Zonal Public Hearing on the amendment of the APC constitution—an incident that has fueled public debate over the party’s 2027 ticket.

‎According to Mumuni, discussions suggesting the substitution of Shettima with a Christian vice-presidential candidate, reportedly to address religious balance concerns, do not sufficiently reflect Nigeria’s prevailing political realities.

‎He argued that, based on his political assessment, the northern region currently lacks a Christian candidate with the required grassroots penetration, political structure and nationwide appeal to effectively complement President Tinubu’s electoral strength.

‎“Decisions of this magnitude must be guided strictly by political calculations, electoral realities and strategic thinking, not sentiment,” Mumuni said, warning that a wrong move could negatively affect the party’s chances at the polls.

‎The APC chieftain also underscored Vice President Shettima’s loyalty to President Tinubu and his commitment to the administration’s policy direction, noting that continuity in leadership often enhances political stability, cohesion and effective governance.

‎He cautioned that replacing the vice president could introduce uncertainty within the party and create adverse public perceptions, especially at a time when the administration is still consolidating its reforms and implementing key policy initiatives.

‎While acknowledging that calls for broader representation and inclusivity in leadership are legitimate, Mumuni urged APC leaders to pursue such goals through alternative and less disruptive means.

‎According to him, inclusivity can be strengthened through strategic appointments of competent individuals with proven capacity, credibility and broad national acceptance, rather than altering the existing presidential ticket.

‎Mumuni also advised against drawing direct parallels between Nigeria’s political environment and foreign political developments, including those in the United States, stressing that Nigeria’s unique social, religious and political dynamics require locally tailored solutions.

‎He further outlined possible challenges that could arise from changing the vice president, including internal party divisions, alignment issues, and the need for a new running mate to rebuild trust and working relationships—factors that could disrupt policy coordination and administrative efficiency during a critical political period.

‎Maintaining that the Tinubu–Shettima ticket remains the most viable option as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, Mumuni called on APC stakeholders to prioritise unity, internal cohesion and effective governance.

‎“Maintaining cohesion, encouraging constructive dialogue and delivering good governance are what will best serve both the party and the country,” he said.