2027 Election: Why Tinubu Is Unlikely to Drop Shettima

…Six Northern APC Leaders Rumored as Alternatives, Including Ex-Zamfara Governor Yari

Despite growing speculations and behind-the-scenes political movements aimed at replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains firmly committed to maintaining Shettima as his running mate, according to authoritative sources confirmed by Vanguard.

There have been whispers within political circles that six prominent figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC), hailing from the Northeast and Northwest, have emerged as potential replacements for Shettima. These individuals include former Zamfara State Governor Abdullaziz Yari, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and former House Speaker Yakubu Dogara.

Among these names, insiders believe the president may be considering Ribadu to position him as a future successor in 2031 when the presidency might shift back to the North. Yari, on the other hand, is reportedly viewed favorably due to his unwavering loyalty and consistent public defense of Tinubu on national matters.

Dogara is said to appeal to some party strategists advocating for a Christian vice presidential candidate in order to rebalance the ticket and dispel the notion of religious bias often associated with the Muslim-Muslim configuration.

As for Governors Yahaya, Bago, and Sani, their current performance in office is viewed positively by APC insiders, who argue their achievements enhance the party’s reputation and support in the North.

Nonetheless, officials within the Tinubu administration have categorically denied the idea that the President is considering a replacement for Shettima in 2027. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, dismissed the rumors, asserting that no conflict exists between the President and his Vice President since they assumed office.

According to Onanuga, decisions about running mates are only made after a presidential candidate emerges from the party primaries. He further emphasized that the evolving nature of Nigerian politics does not necessitate anxiety over such speculations.

Another source close to the Presidency, who requested anonymity, stated clearly that there’s no indication Tinubu plans to replace Shettima. The source emphasized that the Vice President has a strong political base in the North, which is crucial given the growing dissent in the region regarding Tinubu’s re-election plans.

The source added that Shettima remains undefeated in electoral contests in Borno State, where he previously served as governor and senator before becoming Vice President.

“President Tinubu is unlikely to risk replacing Shettima in 2027. The Vice President brings immense political value. He was among the first northern leaders to openly support Tinubu’s presidential ambition even before the APC primaries,” the source said.

It was also recalled that Shettima publicly dismissed Yemi Osinbajo, Tinubu’s former rival, as “an ice cream seller” during the primaries, and went on to become the Director-General of Tinubu’s campaign, playing a central role in securing victory. Since assuming office, he has displayed unwavering loyalty and efficiency, key traits Tinubu reportedly values deeply.

In terms of national unity, the source described Shettima as detribalized, noting his decisive role in de-escalating tensions when northern youths issued a quit notice to Igbos. He worked directly with southeastern leaders to resolve the matter peacefully.

The source alleged that some of those pushing to replace Shettima lack political capital and the ability to win elections in their localities, and are only doing so for selfish political gain.

Additionally, the cordial relationship between Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Hajia Nana Shettima may influence the President’s stance. The bond between the two women is reportedly strong, built through shared initiatives and public engagements.

Hajia Nana Shettima has become deeply involved in the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI)—Senator Tinubu’s flagship empowerment program—which supports millions of Nigerians, especially women and girls. She often represents the First Lady at key functions, reinforcing the alliance.

Sources from the Presidential Villa believe that Senator Tinubu’s ease in working with the Vice President’s wife might further solidify Shettima’s position on the 2027 ticket.