Tinuubu’s 2027 Bid May Be Imperiled by Veep Replacement, Says Former Minister
Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has issued a warning to President Bola Tinubu against replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima in the 2027 elections. According to Shittu, such a move could threaten Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term.
Shittu, who served as a minister under former President Muhammadu Buhari, expressed his concerns during an interview with AIT Focus Nigeria. He advised against replacing Shettima, stressing that the vice president merited his position based on his credentials and not due to any political affiliations.
“I would vote for Shettima any day,” Shittu said. “He is a very intelligent vice president, and I don’t think he deserves any uncertainty regarding his continuity in Tinubu’s team.”
There have been speculations that Tinubu might choose a different running mate for the 2027 elections. However, the presidency has dismissed these rumors, stating that a decision will be made when election campaigns begin officially.
Shittu, however, believes that replacing Shettima could cause substantial disruptions and potentially jeopardize Tinubu’s re-election prospects. “We shouldn’t punish anyone for doing nothing wrong,” he added.
Shettima’s nomination as vice president was on his own merit, Shittu emphasized, and focusing on his political history or any conjectures about his actions would be unwise. The former minister called for caution and careful consideration in addressing such suggestions.
This warning comes as Nigerians await Tinubu’s decisions regarding his incoming administration, with the vice-presidential slot being a particularly keenly watched position. As the political scene gears up for the 2027 elections, all eyes will be on Tinubu’s choices and their potential implications for his re-election bid.
