President Bola Tinubu’s emergence as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 election has sparked renewed discussions over who will serve as his running mate.
Unlike the fiercely contested APC presidential primary in 2022, where Tinubu faced opposition from notable party figures including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and ex-Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, the latest primary process was largely smooth and uncontested.
With Tinubu now holding the APC ticket, political attention has shifted to whether Vice President Kashim Shettima will remain on the ticket or if a new running mate will be chosen ahead of the election.
Tinubu’s decision to pair with Shettima in 2022 drew criticism because both leaders are Muslims. Critics at the time argued that the Muslim-Muslim ticket did not reflect Nigeria’s religious diversity and raised concerns about alleged religious imbalance in governance.
However, as preparations for the 2027 election gather pace, the debate surrounding the same-faith ticket appears to have weakened significantly.
Political observers believe the presence and influence of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has helped soften criticisms surrounding the arrangement.
Analysts have also pointed to Shettima’s loyalty to the President as a major factor that could strengthen his chances of retaining the position.
According to observers, the Vice President has consistently defended the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration while avoiding public disagreements or political confrontations with the President.
Many believe Shettima has carefully aligned himself with Tinubu’s political style, maintaining a relationship built on trust and loyalty.
His political influence in Northern Nigeria is also seen as a significant advantage. Analysts warn that replacing him could create political tensions and affect support in a key voting region.
Tinubu, widely regarded as a strategic politician, may decide against dropping a loyal ally who commands strong grassroots support across the North.
Observers have equally highlighted the cordial relationship between First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President.
Nana Shettima currently serves as the national vice-chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative, a programme founded by the First Lady to support women and girls across the country. She frequently represents Oluremi Tinubu at official events and outreach programmes nationwide.
Despite ongoing political calculations and behind-the-scenes manoeuvres, many analysts believe it would come as a surprise if Tinubu eventually decides to replace Shettima before the 2027 presidential election.
Still, political watchers insist that in Nigerian politics, no outcome can be ruled out completely.
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