President Bola Tinubu has secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket for the 2027 election, setting the stage for fresh speculation about who his running mate will be.
Unlike the 2022 APC presidential primary, where Tinubu faced strong internal opposition from then Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and others, the latest process has been described by observers as a smooth path for the President.
With the APC ticket now in his hands, attention has shifted to whether Tinubu will retain Vice-President Kashim Shettima or choose another running mate.
Tinubu’s decision to pick Shettima in 2022 generated controversy because both men are Muslims.
According to Vanguard, critics had argued at the time that the Muslim-Muslim ticket failed to reflect Nigeria’s religious diversity, especially amid claims of an alleged Islamisation agenda.
However, as the 2027 election approaches, the same-faith ticket debate appears to have reduced.
Some observers believe the influence of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who is a Christian and a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has weakened such arguments.
Shettima’s Loyalty Cited
Vanguard noted that political analysts say Shettima’s loyalty may work strongly in his favour.
They describe him as one of the most loyal deputies in Nigeria’s democratic history, noting that he has consistently defended and interpreted the policies of the Tinubu administration without open confrontation or friction.
According to observers, the Vice-President appears to have studied Tinubu’s political style and has avoided steps that could be interpreted as disloyal.
In politics, loyalty is often considered critical, and Shettima is believed to have earned the President’s confidence.
Another factor believed to favour Shettima is his political weight in the North.
Analysts say dropping him at this stage could carry political risks for Tinubu, given Shettima’s influence and support base.
Tinubu, regarded by many as a master political strategist, may consider it unwise to replace a running mate who has remained loyal and who commands followership in a key electoral region.
First Lady, Nana Shettima Bond
Observers also point to the cordial relationship between the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of the Vice-President, Hajia Nana Shettima.
Mrs Tinubu founded the Renewed Hope Initiative, which focuses on women and girls.
Nana Shettima serves as the national vice-chairman of the initiative and often represents the First Lady at outreach programmes and events across the country.
Despite political intrigues and quiet manoeuvring, observers say it would be surprising if Tinubu drops Shettima ahead of the 2027 election.
However, they also note that in politics, nothing is impossible.