APC Set To Retain Tinubu Shettima Ticket As Nomination Deadline Nears

APC Set to Retain Tinubu–Shettima Ticket as Nomination Deadline Nears With less than 24 hours to the deadline for the submission of presidential and National Assembly nominees, indications have emerged that the ruling All Progressives Congress APC is set to retain the President Bola Tinubu–Vice President Kashim Shettima ticket for the next presidential election, despite months of speculation over a possible change in the vice-presidential slot.

Party sources said the decision reflects political, constitutional and strategic considerations that have made it increasingly difficult for the APC to alter its presidential ticket at this stage. Although discussions over possible alternatives had circulated within some party circles, there has been no official indication from the Presidency or the APC leadership that Vice President Shettima will be replaced. Analysts say retaining the Tinubu–Shettima ticket would preserve the political alliance that secured the party’s victory in the last presidential election while avoiding internal divisions ahead of the polls. They argue that changing a sitting vice president could trigger resistance from influential stakeholders, particularly in the North-East, where Shettima remains a key political figure.

The issue has generated considerable debate within the ruling party in recent months, with some groups advocating a new running mate to broaden the APC’s electoral appeal, while others insist that altering a winning ticket could weaken party cohesion and alienate critical voting blocs. Supporters of retaining Shettima have argued that the Vice President has remained a loyal partner in the administration and has continued to play significant roles in government initiatives and regional political engagement. They contend that any last-minute change could create uncertainty within the party and complicate campaign preparations.

The debate also revives discussions over the APC’s Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, which generated widespread public and political reactions during the 2023 election cycle. While some stakeholders have continued to call for a different religious or regional balance, others maintain that the current ticket has already demonstrated electoral viability. As the nomination deadline approaches, attention is now focused on the APC’s formal submission to the electoral authorities. Barring any last-minute developments, the party is expected to present President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima as its presidential ticket, bringing an end to weeks of speculation over the vice-presidential position. Political observers say the decision, if confirmed, will allow the ruling party to shift its attention from internal succession debates to preparations for the nationwide campaign, while opposition parties are expected to intensify efforts to challenge the APC’s bid for another term in office.