Abuja — Political analyst and PDP Youth Group spokesperson, Dare Glintstone Akinniyi, has raised concerns that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may consider replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima as part of a broader strategy to appeal to northern Christian voters and gain stronger footing in the North Central region ahead of the 2027 elections.
In an interview with Legit.ng on Sunday, Akinniyi warned that such a decision could destabilize the All Progressives Congress (APC) and trigger internal party tensions.
This speculation follows recent reports that some influential voices within the APC are pushing for a more inclusive ticket in 2027. However, the party has denied any plans to drop Shettima, dismissing the claims as unfounded.
APC Responds to Rumors
The APC’s National Director of Publicity, Alhaji Bala Ibrahim, addressed the issue, describing the reports of a possible fallout between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima as inaccurate. He also criticized demands from some northern blocs calling for a change in the vice presidency, stating that such conversations are premature and politically unrealistic, especially as President Tinubu has yet to complete his first term.
Speaking exclusively to Legit.ng, Akinniyi argued that removing Shettima from the ticket could be seen as a sign of weakness or panic within the presidency, rather than a calculated political move.
“I believe President Tinubu is considering a replacement for Vice President Shettima to gain more support from Northern Christians and the North Central region,” Akinniyi said. “But this strategy could backfire, leading to internal conflict and loss of trust within the APC.”
He added that such a change might alienate core supporters and fuel discontent within the ruling party.
“My advice is that Tinubu should retain Shettima. That way, if defeat is inevitable, it would be moderate—not a total collapse.”
Akinniyi also took aim at the APC’s current zoning structure, calling it unbalanced and lacking in national representation. He suggested that a better formula for the future would be a presidential ticket pairing the North East and South East regions.
“As things stand, APC’s current structure is out of touch with the electorate. Nigerians are seeking inclusivity and fairness, and the ruling party’s ticket does not reflect that. The opposition has a real opportunity to unite and present a more acceptable alternative,” he stated.
