Vice President Shettima Reacts to Speculations Over Running Mate Position

President Bola Tinubu has secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket for the 2027 election, sparking fresh speculation about who will be his running mate.

Unlike the 2022 APC presidential primary where Tinubu contended against stiff internal opposition from then Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi and others, the latest process has been termed by observers as a walk through for the President.

Now that the APC ticket is in his pocket, the question is whether Tinubu will retain Vice-President Kashim Shettima or choose a different running mate.

Tinubu’s 2022 selection of Shettima proved controversial because both are Muslim.

Critics at the time argued the Muslim-Muslim ticket did not reflect Nigeria’s religious diversity, particularly with allegations of an alleged Islamisation agenda, Vanguard reported.

But with the 2027 election fast approaching, the conversation about same-faith tickets appears to have died down.

But some say the arguments have been diluted by the influence of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a Christian and pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

Loyalty of Shettima mentioned
Political analysts told Vanguard that Shettima’s loyalty may be a plus for him.

They said he is one of the most loyal deputies in Nigeria’s democratic history, adding that he has always defended and interpreted the policies of the Tinubu administration without open confrontation or friction.

Observers say the Vice-President appears to have studied Tinubu’s political style, and has taken care not to do anything that could be regarded as disloyal.

Loyalty is held in high regard in politics and Shettima is believed to have earned the trust of the President.

Another factor thought to be in Shettima’s favour is his political clout in the North.

But analysts say dumping him now could be politically risky for Tinubu, given Shettima’s clout and support base.

To many, Tinubu is a master political strategist who may find it unwise to replace a running mate who has been loyal and has followership in a key electoral zone.

First Lady, Nana Shettima Bond.
Observers also point to the cordial relationship between the First lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima.

Mrs. Tinubu also launched the Renewed Hope Initiative for women and girls.

The national vice-chairman of the initiative, Nana Shettima, usually represents the First Lady in outreach programmes and events across the country.

Even with political intrigues and quiet manoeuvring, it would be surprising if Tinubu drops Shettima ahead of the 2027 election, observers say.

But they also note that in politics nothing is impossible.