APC Chieftain Issues Strong Warning Against Tampering with Tinubu/Shettima Ticket Ahead of 2027 Elections
In a significant political development, Professor Haruna Yerima, a prominent chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has issued a stern warning against any attempts to alter the Tinubu/Shettima presidential ticket for the 2027 general elections. Yerima described such moves as potentially disastrous for the party's electoral prospects.
Political Naivety and Short-Sightedness Criticized
Professor Yerima, speaking from Abuja, characterized advocates seeking to change the successful ticket as politically naive and short-sighted. He specifically addressed those calling for President Bola Tinubu to select a Christian running mate from either the North-Central or North-West geopolitical zones, dismissing their arguments as lacking strategic foresight.
"There is no gainsaying the fact that tampering with the Tinubu/Shettima presidential ticket would not augur well for the APC in the 2027 general elections," Yerima declared in his statement issued on Sunday, January 24, 2026.
Consistency of Opposition Identified
The former House of Representatives member revealed that those currently advocating for ticket changes are the same elements who opposed the Tinubu/Shettima combination during the 2023 election cycle. "It is appalling that those who never believed the Tinubu/Shettima ticket would deliver victory in 2023 are now working around the clock to change it," he stated emphatically.
Yerima further warned that unless these efforts are stopped immediately, the ruling party will suffer its greatest defeat in 2027, highlighting the potential consequences of disrupting a proven electoral formula.
Christian Genocide Narrative Dismissed
The APC chieftain also addressed claims that alleged Christian genocide concerns should motivate ticket alterations. He categorically rubbished this narrative as a key factor for changing the presidential ticket, suggesting that such arguments lack substantive foundation and fail to consider broader political realities.
Broader Political Context and Warnings
This warning comes amidst broader discussions within political circles about the APC's strategy for the 2027 elections. Other prominent figures, including Minister Musawa, have previously cautioned against dropping a Northern Muslim from the presidential ticket, emphasizing the importance of regional understanding in Nigeria's complex political landscape.
Political analysts suggest that removing Vice President Kashim Shettima could jeopardize the APC's chances, given the intricate cultural and political dynamics prevalent in Northern Nigeria. The party faces the delicate task of balancing various regional and religious considerations while maintaining a winning electoral combination.
As Nigeria approaches another crucial election cycle, these internal party discussions highlight the ongoing challenges of coalition management and strategic planning within the country's dominant political party.
