Fresh indications have emerged that the Presidency and key figures within the ruling party are facing a difficult decision over who will emerge as the running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Sources within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) revealed that discussions within the presidency and party leadership have intensified, with multiple options reportedly being considered regarding the future of Vice-President Kashim Shettima on the 2027 ticket.

Investigations indicate that while there has been no open disagreement between President Tinubu and Shettima, insiders say political strategists around the president had concluded more than a year ago that the president might not seek re-election alongside his current deputy.

According to party insiders, the matter has been handled cautiously to avoid creating visible divisions within the government. While the exact reasons behind the alleged plan remain unclear, sources suggest the considerations range from political strategy to broader electoral calculations ahead of the 2027 polls.

Despite the speculation, Vice-President Shettima is said to have remained firm and has not shown any indication that he is willing to step aside. Some sources within the presidency disclosed that Shettima has continued to carry out his responsibilities normally, while his supporters insist there has been no justification presented for replacing him on the ticket.

One insider said the issue has become delicate because removing the vice-president without clear justification could generate political backlash within certain northern political blocs.

Tinubu’s political camp is the issue of
succession in 2031.

According to sources, some strategists fear that retaining Shettima as vice-president in 2027 could make it difficult to replace him as the natural successor when President Tinubu completes his second term. Political calculations within the camp reportedly favour keeping the option open for another northern candidate to emerge as successor after Tinubu’s tenure. Even in a scenario where circumstances compel the president to retain Shettima for 2027, insiders say the presidency may still prefer another northern political figure to take over the party’s presidential ticket in 2031.