The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed reports suggesting that Vice President Kashim Shettima may be replaced as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the claims as “purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless.”
The ruling party was reacting to media speculation that it may reconsider the Muslim–Muslim ticket that secured its victory in the 2023 presidential election. In a statement issued on Monday by the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party said its attention had been drawn to what it described as a “growing media frenzy” surrounding an alleged plan to substitute the Vice President.
Morka noted that while earlier reports were subtle, they had recently escalated with the mention of specific individuals purportedly being considered as replacements for Shettima. He warned that such reports were misleading and capable of creating unnecessary tension within the polity.
“Our Party states in categorical terms that these stories are purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless,” the statement read. “We urge media organisations to refrain from lending their platforms to rumour-peddlers and mischievous news sources whose sole intention is to promote discord and confusion.”
The APC further stressed that political activities remain restricted under existing laws and electoral regulations, adding that the party is not engaged in succession planning or discussions about the 2027 presidential ticket at this time.
According to Morka, the party’s current focus remains on governance, particularly supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in delivering the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, implementing bold economic reforms, and improving the living conditions of Nigerians.
The party also cautioned its ministers, senior government officials and party leaders against making statements that could fuel unnecessary speculation, urging them to concentrate on diligent service and strengthening the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
