By Jude Opara
Shortly after the All Progressives Congress (APC) retained the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima as the running mate to President Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming 2027 general elections, a member of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party has revealed some of the factors that informed the party’s decision.
The party chieftain who spoke on the condition of anonymity said after wide consultations, the ruling party chose political certainty over experimentation.
Our source said extensive consultations within the APC leadership, including the NWC, the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), and other critical stakeholders, convinced the party that retaining Shettima offered the strongest electoral advantage despite the huge criticism that followed the Muslim– Muslim ticket, both from within and outside the country.
It could be recalled that there were several complaints especially from Christians who frowned at the Muslim -Muslim ticket of the APC administration, and this led to intense lobbying by various interests who wanted to replace Shettima on the ballot.
According to the source, several big names, mainly from the North were discussed in political circles as possible alternatives, including: the National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara and Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State.
Those who were in in support of a change argued that a Christian running mate could help address criticisms that trailed the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the APC in the 2023 presidential election.
It was further gathered that the anti Shettima group argued that the North-East appears to be divided in loyalty to the ruling party, and that a candidate from either North West or North Central could guarantee more votes for the party.
However, the NWC member in dismissing that notion, argued that the party was right in choosing political realities over the sentiments of religion and possible foreign pressure.
“The party carefully examined all available options and concluded that the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima remains the most strategic choice for the APC. Politics is about winning elections and consolidating support bases. We cannot abandon a tested and trusted partner for uncertainties.
“We are confident of securing substantial votes in Borno, Yobe and other parts of the North-East because of his political standing and grassroots network. Those advocating his replacement have not demonstrated how any alternative candidate would guarantee a better electoral outcome for the party”.
The APC chieftain also rubbished claims that the Muslim-Muslim ticket had become a liability, arguing that contrary to that insinuation, Nigerians are more interested in who will provide them with the benefits of democracy and not necessarily where the leaders worship.
Speaking further, he said that the party’s primary consideration was competence, loyalty, performance and electoral viability rather than the discussion about religion.
He noted that Shettima’s performance in office as one of the major reasons behind the decision to retain him, adding that he has remained committed to the implementation of the administration’s and policies and has remained cool headed as he discharged his responsibilities without attracting any serious allegations of misconduct or dereliction of duty.
In recent weeks, a number of pro-APC organisations, including the APC Integrity Group and other party fake holders groups, had publicly urged the party leadership to retain Shettima, describing him as a loyal deputy who has contributed significantly to the stability of the Tinubu administration.
The NWC member called on party faithful across the country to rally behind the Tinubu-Shettima ticket and focus on consolidating the achievements of the administration ahead of the next electoral cycle.
