Tinubu keeps Shettima as 2027 running mate, fuels Muslim-Muslim ticket debate

On Friday, July 11, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu retained Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, a move announced amid renewed debate over the APC's Muslim-Muslim ticket. The decision, reported by DAILY POST, drew contrasting reactions: Kano-based analyst Aminu Rabiu called it a strategic calculation that signals unity and continuity, arguing the same-faith ticket remains a winning formula that delivered massive northern support in 2023 and will likely secure another term. Fellow analyst Kabiru Ojo said retaining Shettima prevented northern governors from viewing Tinubu as disloyal, warning that dropping him could have united northern politicians against the APC and boosted the opposition. In contrast, Jigawa State voter Rabiu Muhammad criticised the ticket for sending the wrong message on religious inclusion, saying it influenced him to vote for a different candidate in 2027. All interviewees agreed the opposition is weakened by internal disputes and legal battles, reducing its capacity to challenge the APC despite the ticket's controversy. The retention underscores the APC's reliance on northern Muslim voter bases, a strategy that worked in 2023 when Tinubu secured over 500,000 votes in Kano State amid a divided opposition. Analysts note that while the ticket may still appeal to northern Muslims, some Christians feel alienated, especially amid international scrutiny over alleged Christian persecution. The opposition, led by figures like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, plans to campaign on governance failures and insecurity, betting that voter dissatisfaction could outweigh religious considerations. As the 2027 election approaches, will you weigh the APC's track record and northern Muslim appeal against concerns about religious inclusivity when deciding your vote?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/12/2027-debate-permutations-as-tinubu-retains-shettima/