APC Youth Parliament Slams Rumours of Shettima's Replacement as 'Plot to Destabilise Party'

By Khalid Idris Doya

Bauchi, Nigeria- Jan 20,2026(Series News Online)

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Parliament has warned against attempts to spread rumours suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, describing such moves as "dangerous, divisive, and capable of weakening the ruling party".

Speaking to journalists in Bauchi on Monday, APC Youth Parliament Chairman Kabiru Garba Kobi dismissed the rumours as a deliberate attempt to sow discord within the APC and undermine both President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.

"Any attempt to replace Senator Kashim Shettima will be a grave political error that could cost President Tinubu massive support in the North, particularly the North-East," Kobi warned.

Kobi acknowledged that the 1999 Constitution gives the President the freedom to choose a running mate from any part of the country, but insisted that "political wisdom, loyalty, and electoral realities" must guide such decisions.

"Everything required of a deputy, loyalty, dedication, courage, political experience, and grassroots support, Senator Kashim Shettima has demonstrated beyond doubt," he said.

The APC Youth Parliament Chairman stressed that Shettima remains "the most unifying political figure in the North-East and a bridge between the region and the rest of the country".

"Shettima is the man who can mobilise the North and deliver the votes President Tinubu needs in 2027. Those calling for his replacement did not contribute meaningfully to the APC’s victory in 2023. Some of them actively worked against Tinubu at the time," Kobi added.

He cautioned President Tinubu against listening to voices that were "neither loyal to the party nor invested in its success".

"We appeal to Mr President not to be distracted by those who were never part of the struggle. Holding firmly to Shettima is the surest path to victory in 2027," he said.

Kobi declared that the APC Youth Parliament would resist any attempt to sabotage the Tinubu/Shettima ticket, insisting that the party's strength lies in "continuity, trust, and proven leadership".