The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed growing speculation that President Bola Tinubu may sideline Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Reacting to the rumours, the APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu, described the claims as baseless and a distraction from ongoing governance efforts.
“I’m hearing that for the first time. There’s a solid working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima,” Arodiogbu said. “Shettima is a key asset—intelligent, focused, and deeply involved in this administration. These rumours are likely just political noise meant to create division.”
He noted that such speculation is common as election cycles approach but emphasised that both Tinubu and Shettima remain united and fully supported by the party.
Also responding, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, said simply, “I am not aware, Sir,” when contacted.
The rumours surfaced shortly after President Tinubu received widespread endorsements from party leaders and elected officials as the APC’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
The endorsement was initiated by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, and seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, during the APC National Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.
Subsequently, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, speaking on behalf of the National Assembly, backed the endorsement, citing the President’s performance.
APC National Chairman, Dr Umar Ganduje, also affirmed the party’s position, declaring Tinubu as its sole candidate for the next presidential race.
While the endorsement was welcomed in some quarters, it also drew criticism from opposition parties and segments within the APC.
