Fact Check: Did Shettima Warn of APC Division If Removed as Vice President?
Vice President Kashim Shettima has been at the center of a viral social media claim alleging he threatened the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would split if he were removed from office. This report examines the facts behind the assertion, which has sparked widespread discussion online.
Origins of the Viral Claim
The claim emerged from a Facebook video posted on Thursday, February 19, 2026. In the video, an unidentified man stated, "If I am removed as vice president, APC will be divided into two, Shettima warned APC leaders. My people, must it be a Muslim-Muslim ticket again for the second time? Share this video and drop your meaningful comment." This post quickly gained traction, raising questions about Shettima's position and potential internal party conflicts.
Verification Process and Findings
Fact-checking by DUBAWA, a reputable verification platform, found no evidence to support the claim. Key findings include:
- Shettima's official website and verified social media accounts show no records of such a statement.
- His online presence primarily documents his activities and engagements as Nigeria's vice president, with no recent remarks addressing this issue.
- Credible news reports were cross-referenced, and none corroborated the alleged threat.
Additionally, the APC national chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, has dismissed rumors about replacing Shettima as the vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, further undermining the claim's credibility.
Context and Broader Implications
The claim appears linked to ongoing speculation about the 2027 presidential ticket, particularly concerns over a potential repeat of the Muslim-Muslim ticket controversy from the 2023 election. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly described Shettima as "a very good partner on the journey for progress," highlighting their collaborative relationship.
Recent political developments, such as Tinubu's plans to establish agricultural mechanization zones and Shettima's calls for enhanced government collaboration on poverty reduction, suggest a focus on governance rather than internal party strife.
Conclusion: Claim is False
Based on the verification process, there is no substantiated evidence that Vice President Kashim Shettima threatened an APC split if removed from office. The claim is therefore classified as false and unfounded. This incident underscores the importance of fact-checking viral social media content to prevent misinformation in Nigeria's political landscape.
