STUDENT ARRESTED FOR FILMING CLASSROOM ASSAULT ON TEACHER IN MALAYSIA. (PHOTO).
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly debunked speculations of a potential split between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The party’s National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, dismissed the rumors as “political noise” aimed at creating division, emphasizing the strong working relationship between the two leaders.
“Shettima is a key asset—intelligent, focused, and deeply involved in this administration,” Arodiogbu told journalists, addressing the speculation for the first time. He noted that such rumors are common during election cycles but affirmed the party’s full support for the Tinubu-Shettima ticket.
The speculation arose following the APC’s endorsement of Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for 2027 during the party’s National Summit in Abuja. The motion, moved by Imo State Governor and Progressive Governors’ Forum Chairman Hope Uzodimma, was seconded by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also endorsed Tinubu on behalf of the National Assembly, citing his performance. APC National Chairman Dr. Umar Ganduje confirmed the decision, declaring Tinubu the party’s candidate.
However, the endorsement sparked criticism from opposition parties and within the APC. Former 2019 APC presidential aspirant Charles Udeogaranya condemned the move, arguing that bypassing a competitive primary would stifle internal democracy and deny Nigerians the chance to choose visionary leadership.
Adding to the political tension, the North-Central Renaissance Movement, led by Prof. Nghargbu K’tso, has intensified calls for the region to secure the vice-presidential slot or even the presidency in 2027. The group, citing marginalization concerns, met with figures like former National Security Adviser Gen. Aliyu Gusau and traditional leaders on April 5 to push their agenda. “We have what it takes to lead and not just to be led,” K’tso stated.
Despite these dynamics, APC’s Deputy National Organising Secretary, Chidi Duru, reiterated that no official plans exist to alter the Tinubu-Shettima ticket. “That’s the President’s prerogative, but there is no reason to believe a switch is being considered,” Duru said. President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, also denied awareness of any rift, stating, “I am not aware, Sir.”
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