Dropping Shettima From 2027 Ticket Could Destabilize APC and Cost Tinubu His Second Term, Shittu Strongly Cautions

 

Former Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu, has issued a stern caution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, advising against any move to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima in the lead-up to the 2027 presidential elections. According to Shittu, sidelining Shettima could pose serious risks to Tinubu's chances of re-election and destabilize the existing political balance within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amid growing speculation that Tinubu may consider a different vice-presidential running mate for the 2027 polls, Shittu has stepped forward to lend his voice to the debate. Speaking during a live appearance on the AIT current affairs program Focus Nigeria, he described any such attempt to replace Shettima as politically unwise and potentially destructive.

While the presidency has officially dismissed reports about a change in the vice-presidency as premature, noting that campaign decisions will be made only when the time comes, political insiders suggest that conversations are quietly taking place behind closed doors.

Shittu was emphatic in his position, stating that Shettima has proven himself not only loyal but highly competent in his role. He argued that the Vice President was not picked due to old party alliances or regional power-sharing, but because he deserved the position on merit.

“Shettima wasn’t selected because of old ANPP ties or any political arithmetic. He was chosen because of his capability,” Shittu said. “He is a very intelligent and grounded Vice President. Personally, I would vote for him again any day.”

The former minister rejected the notion that political strategy or historical affiliations should override performance, noting that Shettima has remained a stabilizing figure in the administration. He praised the Vice President’s intellect, loyalty, and contribution to governance since coming into office.

Shittu cautioned that dropping Shettima would not only create internal conflict within the APC but could also alienate key constituencies across the country. “If any such suggestion is being considered, I believe it is a dangerous path. It would disrupt the synergy that currently exists and could potentially cost President Tinubu a second term,” he warned.

According to him, such a move would be interpreted by many as political punishment rather than strategic recalibration, particularly since there is no indication that Shettima has underperformed or acted disloyally. “Why would anyone consider punishing a man who has done nothing wrong?” he asked pointedly.

The former minister believes that consistency and loyalty should count for something in politics, especially in an administration navigating numerous socio-economic challenges. He pointed out that Shettima has maintained his focus and composure even under pressure, contributing ideas that reflect strategic thinking and national interest.

Shittu’s remarks highlight deeper tensions that may be brewing within the APC as preparations for 2027 slowly take shape. Political factions within the party are reportedly eyeing key positions, and the vice presidency may become a battleground for influence and control.

Observers say that Shettima’s retention or replacement will carry broader implications beyond internal party politics. It could influence voting patterns, particularly in the North, where Shettima commands a significant support base. Any misstep, according to analysts, could alienate important blocs whose backing was crucial to Tinubu’s 2023 victory.

Despite the swirling rumors, the official position from the presidency remains unchanged: no decision will be made until the campaign season begins. However, with prominent voices like Shittu now speaking up, the debate over Shettima’s future in the Tinubu administration is unlikely to die down soon.

As 2027 edges closer, the Tinubu-led government must juggle the dual task of addressing national challenges while keeping the APC united. Whether Shettima stays on the ticket or not could be one of the defining decisions that shape not only the election but also the legacy of the administration.