Ongoing Contest for the Vice Presidency in Nigeria
The political landscape in Nigeria is heating up as discussions intensify regarding the selection of a running mate for President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 presidential elections. While official statements from the Presidency indicate that a decision will be made following the All Progressives Congress (APC) convention, a fierce competition for the vice-presidential position continues to unfold.
Recent Tensions Among APC Stakeholders
The urgency of this discussion is underscored by the recent chaos at the APC North-East stakeholders meeting, which aimed to endorse President Tinubu for the next election cycle. Tensions flared when supporters of Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed their dissatisfaction when the APC Vice Chairman for the North-East, Mustapha Salihu, did not endorse Shettima as Tinubu’s running mate. The incident escalated to the point where chairs were thrown during the meeting.
Salihu later explained his reasoning, stating that endorsing Shettima prematurely would imply that Tinubu had already made his choice for a running mate, which could undermine the ongoing deliberations. He emphasized the importance of allowing the political process to unfold naturally.
Political Calculations and Speculations
Despite the unclear status of Shettima’s candidacy, insiders suggest that President Tinubu is considering a range of potential candidates for the vice-presidential slot. Reports indicate that at least four northern governors, as well as key figures from the National Assembly, are vying for the position. There is also speculation surrounding a possible Christian candidate from Bauchi State, aimed at achieving religious balance within the ticket.
However, party insiders argue that selecting a Christian from the North Central region could negatively impact the APC’s electoral prospects in the densely populated North West and North East regions. Concerns have been raised that such a choice might alienate voters and swing support towards opposition parties.
Historically, the North East has been a challenging region for the APC, with President Tinubu losing to Atiku Abubakar in the last elections. As a result, APC strategists are carefully weighing their options.
The Bigger Picture: Succession Planning
Beyond the immediate selection of a running mate, the contest is viewed as part of a larger struggle for influence and power within the party. Many believe that the choice of vice president is closely linked to who will succeed President Tinubu after his term in 2031. This has led to increased competition among northern APC elites, each hoping to position themselves favorably for the future.
Insiders suggest that the current fight for the vice-presidential nomination is essentially a battle for political legacy. Those aligned with the party’s northern faction are particularly keen to secure the vice presidency, as they believe it could provide a crucial advantage in the 2031 primaries.
The Role of Key Political Figures
In addition to the aforementioned contenders, there are reports of interest from a prominent figure within Tinubu’s cabinet from the North-East. This individual is viewed by some as a potential successor to the presidency, with backing from various influential party members.
Political analysts note that the dynamics within the APC are further complicated by personal relationships and alliances, including the strong bond between the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the Vice President’s wife. Such connections could influence decisions moving forward.
Consultations and Political Maneuvering
As the APC convention approaches, the various camps within the party are actively engaging in discussions and forming alliances. High-stakes negotiations are underway as individuals seek to garner support from governors and party leaders.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has also emerged as a figure of interest, with suggestions that his ambitions for the presidency in 2031 have led to resistance from certain party elements. El-Rufai has publicly accused others within the party of attempting to tarnish his reputation to weaken his potential candidacy.
The APC’s Official Stance
Amidst the flurry of speculation, the APC’s Adamawa State chapter has stated that it lacks the constitutional authority to endorse any candidate for the vice-presidential position. Party representatives assert that the choice ultimately lies with the President and that endorsements from various factions are premature.
Former Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Usman Sugum, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the focus should remain on selecting credible candidates capable of delivering for the party. He called for patience and adherence to electoral procedures.
Diverging Opinions on Political Timing
Nevertheless, political analysts argue that the jockeying for position is a natural part of the electoral process and not premature. They maintain that speculation about potential candidates is essential as the political season approaches.
Prominent political figures have weighed in, asserting that there is no fixed timeline for political maneuvers. As the 2027 elections draw closer, the competition for the vice-presidential slot is expected to intensify, with various factions within the APC vying for influence and power.
Conclusion
As the battle for Tinubu’s running mate unfolds, it becomes clear that this decision will significantly impact Nigeria’s political future. With numerous contenders and a backdrop of intricate political alliances, the quest for the vice-presidency is not merely about the next election but also about shaping the trajectory of the APC and its leaders for years to come. The coming months will be crucial as party members navigate the complexities of this high-stakes game.
