2027: Only the President Can Decide His Running Mate – Idris Denies Tinubu-Shettima Rift

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed rumours of a fallout between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

This follows growing speculation that the President may be considering another candidate as his running mate if he secures the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for re-election in 2027.

At one point, it was reported that the Vice President was allegedly denied access to the President at the Presidential Villa.

In a more recent development, the APC leadership in the North-East, headed by Mustapha Salihu, threw public support behind President Tinubu without mentioning Shettima. This move triggered a reaction from Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who led a protest over the endorsement of Tinubu by the APC North-East without involving Shettima.

However, during an appearance on Channels Television on Wednesday, Minister Mohammed Idris described the alleged conflict as imaginary and baseless.

“This supposed feud exists only in the minds of those who want to believe it,” Idris stated. “I have personally seen the President and the Vice President working together closely, and I’ve been in the same room with both of them recently.”

When asked about the possibility of Shettima not being on the 2027 presidential ticket with Tinubu, Idris responded, “Where did you hear that? Was Shettima’s name mentioned when Tinubu was given the ticket the first time? The selection of a vice president is entirely at the discretion of the President.”

He continued, “President Tinubu selected Kashim Shettima, and they are collaborating excellently. I’m not aware of any disagreement or tension. These are mere fabrications.”

Responding to the report that Shettima was at some point prevented from seeing the President, the Minister dismissed it, comparing the situation to past political rifts.

“This is not a case of Atiku and Obasanjo. Tinubu and Shettima have a long-standing relationship. I see no sign that President Tinubu intends to replace his Vice President,” he asserted.

“Just yesterday, Vice President Shettima was representing the President at the banquet hall. Almost every week, you’ll find him attending major functions on behalf of the President.”

Idris concluded by asking, “Has Vice President Kashim Shettima ever publicly stated that he has any issues with the President?”