Mustapha Salihu, the National Vice Chairman (North-East) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has dismissed reports of a fallout between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, calling such rumors the work of “conflict entrepreneurs.” The speculation arose after Shettima’s name was notably absent during an endorsement of Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election by APC stakeholders in the North-East zone, leading to protests and tension at the meeting in Gombe State.
Salihu explained that internal party matters are handled discreetly and not in public forums such as social media or the press. He described the rumors as inevitable in every administration but attributed them to political opportunists seeking to exploit perceived divisions. He emphasized that the party remains united and that any internal concerns are being managed behind closed doors.
The controversy intensified when APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and Salihu endorsed Tinubu without mentioning Shettima, prompting protests from delegates who demanded recognition for the Vice President. Security operatives had to escort both leaders out of the venue amid the unrest. The APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Bukar Dalori, later addressed the crowd, endorsing both Tinubu and Shettima for a second term to calm tensions.
Despite the public display of discontent, Salihu insisted that there is no unrest in the North-East APC and highlighted ongoing consultations with party members across the region. The debate over the vice-presidential slot reflects broader regional contestations within the party, with the North-West, North-East, and North-Central zones all vying for influence in the 2027 elections.
The Tinubu-Shettima ticket, which was the first Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in Nigeria’s history, faced opposition in 2023, and questions remain about whether the partnership will continue into the next election cycle. Salihu’s comments seek to quell doubts and affirm the party’s commitment to a united front as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
