With President Bola Tinubu signaling intent to seek re-election in 2027, uncertainty now looms over whether Vice President Kashim Shettima will return as his running mate. A series of political developments and public optics suggest the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may be preparing for a reshuffle of its presidential ticket.
During a recent APC National Summit at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu received widespread endorsements from party leaders, governors, and lawmakers. However, Shettima’s name was conspicuously missing from the narrative. Although he was present at the event, he remained reserved, offering no public reaction as colleagues cheered on the president’s potential second term.
A similar atmosphere unfolded at a Northeast APC event in Gombe, where support for Tinubu was reaffirmed—again, without mention of the vice president. The event took a tense turn when some aggrieved attendees protested, leading to security forces evacuating party officials from the scene.
Sources close to the party suggest that internal rifts have emerged, particularly around the vice president’s perceived stance on the controversial tax reform bills sent to the National Assembly in 2023. The National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Shettima, had openly advised broader consultations before the bills were passed—a move some insiders considered a challenge to the president’s agenda. Critics within the party also point to Governor Babagana Zulum’s opposition to the tax reforms, linking it to Shettima due to their political alignment.
Observers have also noted that Tinubu has not transferred power to Shettima during his frequent overseas trips, opting instead to return to Nigeria before the constitutional 21-day window that would necessitate doing so. This has further fueled rumors of a growing divide.
The tension came into sharper focus recently in Uyo, where Shettima appeared to snub APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje during a reception event—an action that some interpreted as a silent protest against ongoing political maneuverings.
Insiders indicate that a search for a possible vice presidential replacement is underway, with names such as National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Yobe Governor Mai Mala Buni, and Gombe Governor Inuwa Yahaya being floated. All are from the Northeast, suggesting the party may retain its current geopolitical zoning even if Shettima is dropped.
Political analysts argue that the situation, while fluid, reflects the evolving nature of Nigeria’s power dynamics. With over a year left before campaigns officially begin, much can still change.
For now, the question remains: will Vice President Shettima maintain his position on the 2027 ticket—or is the ruling party preparing to rewrite its political script? Only time, and the complex calculus of party politics, will tell.
