President Bola Tinubu may find it difficult to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Political calculations and growing support for Shettima within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have strengthened his position.
Although the President has the constitutional right to choose a running mate, party insiders say replacing Shettima could create fresh political challenges. They believe the move may affect the APC’s support base, especially in the North-East.
North-East leaders back Shettima
Sources within the APC said influential political leaders from the North-East have intensified consultations to ensure Shettima remains on the party’s presidential ticket.
The sources said many stakeholders respect Tinubu’s constitutional powers. However, they believe retaining Shettima offers the party greater political stability ahead of the next general election.
They also described Shettima as a loyal ally who has continued to support the administration. According to them, no other northern politician currently offers the same political advantage in the region.
Political moves raise fresh concerns
The report also claimed that former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has reached out to political leaders in the North-East. The move reportedly forms part of efforts to strengthen the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 election.
According to the sources, Amaechi told some stakeholders that Tinubu was considering a new running mate. However, many of the leaders reportedly reaffirmed their support for Shettima and the existing APC ticket.
Electoral law adds another hurdle
Party insiders also pointed to the Electoral Act as another reason Tinubu may avoid replacing his deputy.
They argued that changing a vice-presidential candidate after submitting nomination papers could become complicated. The process would require legal and political steps that many party leaders believe are unnecessary.
As a result, several stakeholders reportedly prefer keeping the current ticket instead of creating uncertainty before the election.
What happens next?
The APC is expected to announce its final presidential ticket before the nomination deadline. Until then, political observers will continue to monitor developments as the party weighs its options ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
