Anxiety mounts as Shettima waits on Tinubu’s running mate decision

With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu securing the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket for the 2027 election without significant opposition, attention is gradually shifting to another critical question: who will be his running mate?

Unlike the fiercely contested 2022 APC presidential primary, where Tinubu faced challenges from figures such as Yemi Osinbajo and Rotimi Amaechi, his emergence this time was largely a formality, reflecting his strong influence within the ruling party.

As discussions intensify ahead of the 2027 campaign, political observers believe Vice President Kashim Shettima remains the strongest contender to retain his position on the ticket.

One of the key factors working in Shettima’s favour is loyalty. Since assuming office in 2023, the vice president has consistently defended and promoted the policies of the Tinubu administration, avoiding public disagreements or political friction.

Analysts also point to the working relationship between the president and his deputy, describing Shettima as one of the most loyal vice presidents in Nigeria’s recent democratic history.

The controversy that surrounded the Muslim-Muslim ticket in 2023 appears to have diminished significantly. Critics had argued that pairing two Muslim candidates on the same ticket could deepen religious divisions, but supporters of the administration maintain that those fears have not materialised.

Observers further note that First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, a Christian and pastor, has remained active in government programmes and national outreach initiatives, a factor some believe has weakened arguments about religious exclusion.

Political calculations may also favour retaining Shettima. As a prominent northern politician with a strong support base, he is considered an important asset in maintaining the APC’s influence across the northern region.

In addition, the cordial relationship between the First Lady and Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the vice president, particularly through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), is often cited as evidence of a stable working partnership within the administration.

While political intrigues and succession calculations may continue behind the scenes, many APC insiders believe dropping Shettima at this stage could create unnecessary political risks for the ruling party.

For now, all indications suggest that Tinubu and Shettima may once again fly the APC flag together in 2027. However, as Nigerian politics has repeatedly shown, final decisions often emerge only when official nominations are submitted.

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