
Vice President Kashim Shettima may be facing increasing political pressure as fresh reports indicate he could be dropped as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sources within the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) confirm that behind-the-scenes maneuvering is already underway. Influential factions within the ruling party are said to be lobbying for Shettima’s replacement with another northern figure perceived as better positioned to strengthen the party’s electoral standing and secure broader regional support.
Northern Governors and Lawmakers Emerge as Contenders
Among the prominent names being floated are four sitting governors from the North: Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Uba Sani (Kaduna), and Dikko Radda (Katsina). These governors are reportedly consolidating influence within the APC, with at least two of them believed to be actively eyeing the vice-presidential slot.
“The Katsina governor’s ambition is no secret,” a senior APC insider told Sunday Punch. “He has strong backing from powerful stakeholders who insist the North West must retain significant influence in the next administration.”
Other potential contenders include the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, and Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin. Both are considered politically strategic and are reportedly supported by key interest groups within the APC that are pushing for a more dynamic and assertive vice-presidential figure to complement President Tinubu in a second term.
Concerns Mount Over Shettima’s Political Clout
While Shettima maintains regular access to President Tinubu and continues to represent the administration in high-level engagements, some APC insiders express dissatisfaction with his performance. Critics argue that he has not exhibited the kind of independent political gravitas expected of a vice president in Nigeria’s complex political terrain.
“He’s present, yes—but many believe he lacks the initiative and leadership presence that inspire confidence,” a party chieftain said. “He hasn’t carved out a distinct space for himself within the administration or the party.”
Several APC figures suggest that Shettima is more reactive than strategic, often operating strictly within the boundaries of presidential directives rather than independently navigating party politics or national negotiations.
What Lies Ahead for 2027
As the race toward 2027 heats up, the contest over the vice-presidential ticket is shaping into a critical subplot in Nigeria’s evolving political drama. Analysts believe Shettima’s future depends on how he is perceived in the North, the shifting internal dynamics of the APC, and the ability of rivals to mobilize support within the party’s top hierarchy.
Ultimately, the decision rests with President Tinubu, whose intentions for a second term are becoming more evident as the APC coalesces around his re-election bid. Whether Shettima remains part of that plan or is replaced by a more politically expedient running mate remains one of the key questions in the run-up to 2027.