Abuja — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has categorically dismissed speculation that Vice President Kashim Shettima might be replaced as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 general elections, describing such claims as “purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless.”
The denial comes amid media reports suggesting the ruling party could reconsider its Muslim–Muslim ticket, which secured victory in the 2023 election.
Reacting to the rumours, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka urged media organisations to avoid amplifying unverified stories, warning that such reports are designed to cause division and confusion in the polity.
“Our party states in categorical terms that these stories are purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless. We call on media outlets to refrain from lending their platforms to rumour-peddlers,” Morka said.
The party emphasized that political activities remain restricted under current laws and electoral regulations and stressed that succession discussions are not underway. APC also directed its ministers, senior officials, and party leaders to focus on governance and avoid statements that could fuel unnecessary speculation.
Earlier, the Minister of Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, warned against abandoning the Muslim–Muslim ticket, citing northern political sensitivities. She noted that replacing VP Shettima could alienate voters in core northern states such as Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Jigawa, Zamfara, and Sokoto.
“Politics in the North is deeply shaped by identity and history. Changing the construct of the ticket could create serious hurdles,” Musawa said.
The APC reiterated that its current focus remains on supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in delivering the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, boosting economic reforms, and improving the living standards of Nigerians.
“We urge all party leaders to strengthen the success and achievements of President Tinubu, our inimitable and visionary leader,” the statement added.
