Baba-Ahmed Urges Tinubu To Address Rumours Of Dropping Shettima Ahead Of 2027.
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former political adviser to President Bola Tinubu, has called on the President to personally dispel persistent rumours that he plans to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Baba-Ahmed described the President’s silence on the matter as “worrying” and urged him to provide clarity to quell rising political tensions.
The speculation, which has gained traction in recent months, suggests a possible rift between Tinubu and Shettima, with some alleging plans to sideline the Vice President ahead of the next general election. In June, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga dismissed the claims as a “non-issue,” stating that Tinubu would only select a running mate after securing the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination. However, Baba-Ahmed, who resigned from his advisory role in the Tinubu administration three months ago, argued that a direct statement from the President himself was necessary to put the matter to rest. “I would be very curious to find out what makes all these stories about dropping him. Somewhere along the line, the President should have done something a long time ago,” he said.
The controversy intensified following an APC stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe State last month, where some party leaders endorsed Tinubu for re-election without mentioning Shettima, sparking outrage among the Vice President’s supporters. The event descended into chaos, with delegates chanting Shettima’s name and clashing with party officials. Baba-Ahmed warned that any move to replace Shettima could alienate the North, a key voting bloc for the APC, and create unnecessary political instability. “It’s worrying; let me just say it is worrying. If the President thinks it’s a non-issue, he should have said it directly and emphatically,” he added.
Tinubu’s administration has faced mounting scrutiny over its handling of internal party dynamics, with some analysts suggesting the rumours reflect deeper divisions within the APC. Despite assurances from party insiders, including former APC Board of Trustees member Ismaeel Ahmed, who described the rift claims as “malicious rumours,” the lack of a clear statement from Tinubu has fuelled speculation. Minister of Information Mohammed Idris also dismissed the feud allegations in June, insisting that Tinubu and Shettima share a cordial relationship and work closely together.
Baba-Ahmed’s remarks have reignited public debate, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express mixed views. Some praised the former adviser for highlighting the need for transparency, while others accused him of stirring controversy for personal gain. Posts on X reflect the polarised sentiment, with users warning that dropping Shettima could cost Tinubu support in the North, while others urged the President to focus on governance rather than electioneering.
The call for clarity comes at a critical time for the APC, which is preparing for its National Executive Committee meeting to address leadership transitions, including the replacement of National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje. Political observers note that Tinubu’s handling of the Shettima rumours could set the tone for the party’s unity ahead of 2027. For now, the President’s silence continues to draw attention, with Baba-Ahmed’s comments underscoring the need for decisive leadership to maintain public and party confidence.