The All Progressives Congress (APC) has denied claims that President Bola Tinubu is planning to drop Vice President Kashim Shettima from the 2027 presidential ticket. The party says such speculation is baseless and misleading.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, APC’s National Vice Chairman (South-East), noted that there is no rift between Tinubu and Shettima. According to him, both men continue to work closely and effectively as a team in leading the country.
“I’m hearing that for the first time. There’s a solid working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.
“Shettima is a key asset—intelligent, focused, and deeply involved in this administration. These rumours are likely just political noise meant to create division,” Arodiogbu told The PUNCH.
He further noted that during times leading up to elections, it is not unusual for rumours to start circulating, especially ones intended to stir up trouble. However, he insisted that the president and his deputy are on the same page and fully backed by the APC.
Daniel Bwala, who serves as Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, also responded briefly when contacted. “I am not aware, Sir,” he said.
The rumour began spreading after a public endorsement of President Tinubu by top APC leaders. At the APC National Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, 22 governors, members of the National Assembly, and party executives openly backed Tinubu as the party’s only candidate for the 2027 election.
Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, was the first to propose the endorsement. It was seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani.
Leaders of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, also supported the move. They stated that the President had earned another term based on his work so far.
APC’s National Chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje, speaking for the party’s National Working Committee, also confirmed that Tinubu would run unopposed under the APC banner.
