2027: APC Clears Air On Shettima’s Fate As Tinubu’s Running Mate
Published on Friday, June 20, 2025
“Tinubu is our candidate—running mate talks premature,” says APC National Secretary
As political tension builds ahead of the 2027 general elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed its unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu to be the party’s presidential flagbearer—but remains silent on whether Vice President Kashim Shettima will return as his running mate.
During an interview on Channels Television on Friday, APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru clarified that the question of Tinubu’s running mate is “not yet up for discussion.” According to him, such decisions typically follow the party’s national convention, which occurs roughly a year before the polls.
“As far as we are concerned, the national summit held at the Presidential Villa has endorsed Mr. President. The running mate decision will come later,” Basiru stated.
🗳️ What About Shettima?
Speculations surged after the APC Northeast stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe State on June 15 ended without a formal endorsement of Vice President Shettima, despite backing Tinubu for a second term. The omission sparked debate, especially since the summit was hosted in Shettima’s geopolitical zone.
But Basiru, who was present at the event, dismissed the tension as typical political divergence.
“People are entitled to different opinions. Some wanted Shettima mentioned, others thought Tinubu alone should be endorsed. It’s not an issue,” he said.
🔍 Key Takeaways:
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Tinubu’s 2027 candidacy has been endorsed by APC leadership and stakeholders.
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Running mate decision will be made post-convention—likely in 2026.
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APC leadership distances itself from Northeast political wrangling, maintaining neutrality.
“At the national convention, only the presidential candidate will emerge. The running mate will be decided after that,” Basiru concluded.
For now, the APC appears focused on unity and consolidation behind Tinubu, leaving Shettima’s fate hanging—at least until the party’s convention draws closer.
