Former Minister Says Move Could Jeopardise Second-Term Bid
By Rafiyat Sadiq
Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Shittu, who served in the cabinet of former President Muhammadu Buhari, said any attempt to drop Shettima could threaten Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term.
Speaking during an interview on AIT’s Focus Nigeria, Shittu described Shettima as a capable and deserving deputy, whose continued presence on the presidential ticket would be vital to the ruling party’s electoral fortunes.
Speculations Dismissed by the Presidency
Speculation has circulated in recent weeks suggesting the president might opt for a new running mate in the next election cycle. However, the presidency has dismissed such reports, stating that any decision regarding the 2027 race would be made public at the appropriate time in accordance with electoral timelines.
READ ALSO: Whispers of Defiance: Is the Tinubu-Shettima Ticket Still Intact?
“Shettima wasn’t picked because of party arrangements or affiliations; he was chosen on merit,” Shittu stated. “He remains one of the most intelligent vice presidents this country has had, and I would support him any day.”
The former minister also questioned the basis of the rumours surrounding Shettima’s potential replacement.
“I don’t know what he has done to deserve doubts about his loyalty or competence,” he said. “I believe it would be a serious mistake to drop him. Any move in that direction would cause unnecessary disruption and could endanger President Tinubu’s re-election prospects.”
Shittu further urged party stakeholders to approach such decisions with caution, emphasising that consistency in leadership is essential.
“They must continue together,” he said. “You don’t remove someone who has done no wrong. Doing so would send the wrong signal.”
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
