2027 Polls: ‘We’ll decide who becomes Tinubu’s VP when the time comes’

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly dismissed speculation over a potential change in President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election, insisting that no decision has been made on the vice-presidential slot and that the party will determine the candidate “when the time comes.” In a statement issued on Tuesday, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka described reports suggesting Vice President Kashim Shettima might be dropped as “purely speculative, untrue, and utterly baseless.” The party’s response comes amid heightened political chatter in the buildup to the next general elections, with observers closely watching the dynamics within the ruling party.

The speculation has largely centred on religious and regional balancing, given the current Tinubu-Shettima ticket’s Muslim-Muslim composition in 2023. Critics and some party stakeholders have argued for adjustments to broaden appeal, particularly in the Christian-dominated South and Middle Belt regions. However, Morka’s statement rejected such narratives as mischievous attempts to sow discord. He emphasised that the decision on the vice-presidential candidate rests with the party leadership and President Tinubu, to be finalised only after the APC’s national convention nominates its presidential flagbearer and in line with the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The APC further urged its members, including ministers, appointees, and supporters, to refrain from engaging in or amplifying rumours that distract from governance. Morka highlighted the administration’s ongoing efforts in economic reforms, infrastructure development, and security, calling on party faithful to rally behind President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda instead of indulging in premature succession debates. The statement also referenced earlier remarks by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, who had similarly deferred any discussion on the VP slot until after the party’s primaries.

Political analysts note that the APC’s measured tone reflects a strategy to avoid early divisions that could weaken the party ahead of 2027. While some groups, including the North-Central APC Forum, have publicly warned against dropping Shettima—citing risks to the ticket’s viability—the party leadership appears intent on maintaining unity and flexibility. With the election still more than a year away, the ruling party has effectively drawn a line under the current round of speculation, signalling that any changes to the ticket will be handled internally and at the appropriate moment.