The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed growing rumours suggesting that President Bola Tinubu might drop Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, APC’s National Vice Chairman (South-East), described the speculations as “baseless” and politically motivated. He emphasized that the working relationship between Tinubu and Shettima remains solid and unshaken.
“I’m hearing that for the first time. There’s a solid working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima,” Arodiogbu said.
He added that Shettima remains a key figure in the administration, intelligent, strategic, and fully committed. According to him, the rumours are likely attempts by political opponents to stir division within the ruling party.
“These are just distractions. Shettima is an asset to this government,” he said.
He also noted that such speculations often arise as elections approach and political camps begin to realign.
In a similar tone, Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, dismissed the claims outright.
“I am not aware, Sir,” Bwala replied when asked about the alleged plan.
The rumours followed a major political event at the APC National Summit, held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja. During the summit, 22 APC governors, leaders of the National Assembly, and top party stakeholders endorsed President Tinubu as the party’s sole candidate for 2027.
The motion was raised by Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, and seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also backed the endorsement, citing Tinubu’s performance in office as justification.
This wave of endorsements has triggered speculation that a strategic replacement of the Vice President could follow to broaden Tinubu’s appeal across regions ahead of the next elections. However, the APC insists there is no such plan.
