Amid mounting political speculation surrounding the future of Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Presidency has firmly dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu is considering replacing him with another northern politician.
Reports had circulated suggesting that six prominent figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC) were being considered as potential running mates for President Tinubu in 2027.
However, high-ranking government sources have categorically stated that “no such plan” exists, emphasizing that the relationship between the President and Vice President remains strong and intact.
The individuals rumored to be in contention include:
•Abdulaziz Yari, former Governor of Zamfara State
•Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser
•Mohammed Bago, Governor of Niger State
•Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State
•Inuwa Yahaya, Governor of Gombe State
•Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives
Each of these names reportedly emerged based on strategic political and religious considerations. Sources suggest Yari is favored by some due to his longstanding political alliance with Tinubu. Ribadu, on the other hand, is believed to be seen as a viable long-term presidential candidate for 2031.
Dogara’s name has allegedly been floated as a way to adjust the religious makeup of the ticket—moving from the current Muslim-Muslim arrangement to a Christian-Muslim pairing, potentially broadening national appeal.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of Governors Bago, Sani, and Yahaya is reportedly attributed to their growing political stature and commendable performances in office, which have earned them significant support among party loyalists.
Speaking on the matter, Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga dismissed the speculation, asserting that there is no discord between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima. He described the rumors as baseless and premature, noting that decisions regarding running mates are typically made only after party primaries.
“The President and his Vice are united in purpose,” Onanuga said. “Discussions about 2027 ticket configurations are not only speculative but also entirely premature at this stage.”