“The Time is Not Yet”: APC Defers Decision on Tinubu’s 2027 Running Mate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has addressed the growing speculation surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice of a running mate for the 2027 general elections. In a statement on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the party clarified that a final decision on who will occupy the Vice Presidential slot has not been made, noting that such discussions will be finalized "when the time comes."

Speculation about a potential ticket shake-up has been rife since mid-2025, following reports of an alleged "snub" of Shettima during a North-East stakeholders' meeting and claims that the presidency was under pressure to consider other candidates to broaden the ticket's appeal.

The APC leadership, however, appears to be downplaying any immediate rift. Party spokespersons emphasized that the administration's current focus is on delivering the "Renewed Hope Agenda" rather than electioneering tactics.

“The party and the President are currently focused on governance and the economic stability of Nigeria,” a party source noted. “While the President has the prerogative to choose his running mate, the APC as a collective will follow established processes and conventions when the electoral cycle demands it. For now, any talk of replacing or confirming a VP for 2027 is premature.”

Shettima, who recently returned to Abuja after representing Nigeria at the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, has remained largely silent on the specific rumors regarding his seat. However, his recent high-profile reception of several high-ranking defectors from the opposition—including state governors—suggests he remains a central figure in the party’s grassroots consolidation efforts.

Do you think President Tinubu should stick with Kashim Shettima for a second term, or is it time for a new face on the 2027 ticket? Share your comments below!

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