APC to speculators: Hands off Tinubu–Shettima ticket
The All Progressives Congress has dismissed reports suggesting a move to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general election, describing the claims as baseless and speculative.
The party said the reports, which have gained traction in sections of the media, were aimed at promoting discord and confusion within the polity.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, urged media organisations to refrain from amplifying rumours from what he described as “mischievous news sources of questionable provenance.”
“Our attention has been drawn to growing media frenzy about a possible replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima as the running mate to President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections,” Morka said.
He noted that while earlier reports were subtle, the speculation had recently escalated with the mention of specific individuals allegedly being considered as replacements.
“Our party states in categorical terms that these stories are purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless,” he added.
Morka stressed that political activities ahead of the 2027 polls were still restricted under existing laws and electoral regulations, noting that the APC remained focused on governance rather than election permutations.
“At this time, our party is fully committed to supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda and entrenching the bold reforms that are steadily transforming the economy and improving the living conditions of Nigerians,” the statement read.
The party also cautioned ministers, senior government officials and party leaders against making comments that could fuel unnecessary speculation.
“We call on our ministers, senior government and party officials to avoid, wittingly or unwittingly, stoking needless speculations, and to focus on their primary duty of diligent service to government and party,” Morka said.
He described President Tinubu as a visionary leader and urged party members to concentrate on consolidating the administration’s achievements rather than engaging in premature political debates.
The APC reaffirmed its commitment to party unity and stability, warning that unfounded rumours could distract from governance and undermine public confidence.
