There is growing tension within the All Progressives Congress (APC) over Vice President Kashim Shettima’s future ahead of the 2027 elections, according to PUNCH.
Reports suggest several northern politicians are hoping to replace him on President Bola Tinubu’s ticket.
At least four northern governors and two top lawmakers are said to be interested in the vice-presidential seat. …CONTINUE READING
These include governors from Yobe, Gombe, Kaduna, and Katsina states.
Also mentioned are the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, and Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin.
Sources within the APC say that criticism of the Tinubu government by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and Senator Ali Ndume is affecting Shettima, both men are close to the VP and from his home state.
Zulum has spoken out against tax reforms and insecurity, Ndume was recently targeted for removal as Senate Majority Whip due to his public statements.
“The main problem for Shettima is the conduct of politicians from his state, including the governor, Ndume, and others close to him, who have been openly critical. The perception is that he can’t rein them in.”
“If a sitting governor and senator from your state, especially one you handed over to, keep criticising the government, it becomes a problem,” he said.
The absence of Shettima’s name at a recent APC meeting in Gombe angered his supporters.
The event turned chaotic when delegates protested his exclusion from the endorsement of Tinubu’s second-term bid.
Some insiders say Shettima is not very close to the President and lacks independent political strength.
Others say governors and party leaders are lobbying quietly to influence the President’s choice of running mate.
However, spokespeople for some of the mentioned governors and lawmakers have denied any ambition for the VP slot.
They say their principals are focused on governance, not personal ambitions.
The APC leadership is divided on the matter, while some want Shettima to remain, others are pushing for change but the party says there is no crisis, the final decision, they say, lies with the President.
Meanwhile, the APC’s North-East Zonal Chairman insists the region must retain the VP seat.
He says the zone will work hard to keep the position in 2027.
A federal lawmaker has also warned President Tinubu not to drop Shettima.
He said the VP was key to APC’s 2023 victory and helped secure northern support.
As the 2027 race approaches, pressure within the ruling party is rising.
