Fresh uncertainty has gripped the political future of Vice President, Kashim Shettima, as indications emerge that he may not be retained as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 general elections.
Multiple sources within the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) confided in Sunday Punch that internal permutations are already underway, with several power blocs positioning alternative candidates for the vice-presidential slot.
According to insiders, four northern governors, Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Muhammadu Yahaya (Gombe), Uba Sani (Kaduna), and Dikko Radda (Katsina) are in strong contention as potential replacements for Shettima.
“The Katsina governor’s interest is no secret,” a source familiar with the matter said, adding that the competition is heating up as the race for political relevance in the North intensifies.
Also in the mix are Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, and Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, both of whom are said to represent powerful blocs within the ruling party.
Despite maintaining regular access to President Tinubu, Shettima is reportedly facing internal criticisms over what some party figures describe as a lack of “independent capacity.”
A senior APC official told Sunday Punch, “He has unfettered access to the President. That’s true. He meets with the President often. But somehow, he hasn’t earned the President’s confidence. He hasn’t demonstrated leadership or taken initiative.”
According to the source, the Vice President is perceived as operating “under instructions” and has not shown the level of political assertiveness expected of someone in his position.