Tinubu Retains Shettima As Running Mate For 2027 Presidential Election

 

By Ambrose Amos 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially retained Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, ending months of speculation over whether the All Progressives Congress (APC) would field a different vice-presidential candidate.

The confirmation came after the APC submitted its presidential nomination forms bearing the names of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima. The documents were presented on the President's behalf by his Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Masari, during a brief ceremony attended by party leaders in Abuja.

The development puts to rest widespread reports suggesting that President Tinubu was considering replacing Shettima as part of his political strategy ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speculation had intensified in recent months, particularly after some APC stakeholders in the North-East endorsed Tinubu's re-election bid without mentioning Shettima. The omission sparked debates within political circles and led to suggestions that the ruling party might adopt a different vice-presidential candidate to strengthen its electoral chances.

However, the submission of the nomination forms confirms that the APC will contest the 2027 election with the same Tinubu-Shettima ticket that secured victory in the 2023 presidential election.

Political analysts say the decision reflects President Tinubu's confidence in his partnership with Shettima and signals the administration's preference for continuity as it seeks a second term in office.

The move also preserves the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket that generated nationwide debate before the 2023 election but ultimately helped deliver victory for the APC.

The confirmation is expected to reassure Shettima's supporters, especially in the North-East, where the former Borno State governor continues to wield significant political influence. Having served as governor, senator, and now vice president, Shettima remains one of the APC's most prominent figures in the region.

The APC has consistently dismissed claims that the Vice President would be dropped from the ticket, describing such reports as speculation and urging party members to remain focused on promoting the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

With the APC's presidential ticket now settled, attention is expected to shift to opposition parties, many of which are still finalising their vice-presidential candidates and broader campaign strategies ahead of the 2027 general election.