Shettima’s Dilemma: Loyalty, Performance, and Politics of 2027

BY IGBOELI ARINZE

Rumors in politics are often described as powerful, yet unreliable, tools, however in the Nigerian political landscape, behind every rumour there usually is an iota of truth in them and it is only a matter of time before such speculations begin to unravel.

For Vice President Kashim Shettima, his future as Veep to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu seems to be hazy as the media has been awash with the story that should Tinubu seek a second term in office as president, he may do so without Shettima being on the ballot.

This discourse has fuelled unnecessary tension within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and raises serious questions about political loyalty, moral responsibility, and strategic thinking in Nigerian politics.

The speculation storm surrounding Shettima’s alleged replacement have gained significant traction across various political circles. According to some narratives, some northern stakeholders have pressured President Tinubu to consider dropping the Vice President in favour of another northerner, with various names been bandied as potential replacements, these speculations reached a fever pitch when some northern youths and Islamic groups publicly called for Shettima’s replacement, arguing that the current Muslim-Muslim ticket needs recalibration for broader appeal.

The pressure become so intense when at the North-East APC rally in Gombe, held sometime in June this year saw the zone endorsing President Tinubu’s second term agenda without mentioning the Vice, this omission of sorts gave fuel to the speculation that certain northern elements were eying Shettimma’s job and supporters of Shettimma like Godsday Orubebe would not take it, immediately reacting to the North-East’s Zonal Chairman’s and the recent past National Chairman, Abdulahi Ganduje speeches with reciprocable anger, hurling insults and threats, whilst exchanging fisticuffs and further reprisals and threatening greater physical harm, prompting security officials to whisk both Salihu and Ganduje from the venue.

A dispassionate analysis of Vice President Shettima’s performance since assuming office in May 2023 reveals a man who has been nothing short of exemplary in his role. His track record speaks volumes about his dedication to both his office and his principal. From representing Nigeria at the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos to delivering speeches at the United Nations General Assembly, Shettima has consistently demonstrated competence and loyalty.

His background as a former banker, successful businessman, and two-term governor of Borno State provides him and the Tinubu administration with the requisite experience to handle the complexities of the vice presidency. During his tenure as governor from 2011 to 2019, he managed one of Nigeria’s most challenging states during the height of the Boko Haram insurgency, demonstrating remarkable resilience and administrative acumen. His subsequent service as a senator from 2019 to 2023 further solidified his understanding of Nigeria’s legislative processes and national politics.

Since becoming Vice President, Shettima has maintained a low profile while efficiently executing his duties, avoiding the controversies that have reportedly plagued one of his predecessors, Atiku Abubakar. He has been a team player, supporting presidential initiatives without creating unnecessary drama or seeking to overshadow his principal. This level of loyalty and competence should be valued, not discarded on the altar of political expediency.

The suggestion that President Tinubu should drop Shettima represents a fundamental breach of political ethics and moral responsibility. Political partnerships, especially at the highest levels of government, are built on trust, mutual respect, and shared vision. When two individuals campaign together and win an election, they establish a bond that transcends mere political convenience.

Shettima stood by Tinubu before the 2023 primaries during the primaries and in the course of the 2023 election campaign, when the Muslim-Muslim ticket faced intense criticism and opposition. He weathered the storm of religious and ethnic politics, defending the ticket and contributing to its eventual victory. Having benefited from Shettima’s loyalty and support during the campaign, it would be unconscionable for Tinubu to abandon him now simply because of political calculations for 2027.

Moreover, the Vice President has not committed any offense that would justify his removal. He has not been involved in any scandal, has not undermined the administration, and has not shown any disloyalty to the President. Dropping him would send a dangerous signal to other political associates that loyalty means nothing in Nigerian poli- tics, further eroding trust in political partnerships.