"
Breaking News: Don’t Drop Shettima in 2027 — Ex-Minister Shittu Warns Tinubu, Says Move Could Jeopardize Second Term Bid
A former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has issued a strong warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over speculations that he may replace Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Shittu, speaking on AIT’s Focus Nigeria, cautioned that any attempt to sideline Shettima in the next election cycle could spell political disaster for Tinubu’s re-election ambitions.
There have been growing rumours that President Tinubu is considering picking a new running mate for the 2027 race. However, the Presidency has downplayed these claims, maintaining that no official decisions will be made or announced until the campaign season begins.
Shittu firmly rejected the idea of replacing the current vice president, describing Shettima as a “brilliant and deserving leader.”
“Shettima was not nominated as vice president because of whatever cleavage he had with ANPP. On his own merit, he got it,” Shittu said. “Shettima, as a person, merits it. He is a very intelligent vice president. I would vote for Shettima any day.”
The former minister also expressed confusion over why some individuals were pushing for Shettima’s replacement.
“I don’t know what he has done for people to think that he would act differently,” he added. “I don’t think Shettima deserves any prevarication on his continuity in Tinubu’s team.”
Shittu further warned that such a move could backfire politically.
“If there are any such suggestions from any quarters, I think we must be very careful about it,” he said. “It would bring a lot of disruptions if that move is made and it could endanger the possibility of Tinubu’s second presidency. They must continue. You don’t punish anybody for doing nothing wrong.”
As the 2027 elections gradually approach, political realignments and strategic decisions within the ruling APC are expected to attract closer public scrutiny.