Paragraph 1: The Genesis of the Controversy
The political landscape in Nigeria is buzzing with discussions about the 2027 presidential election, particularly concerning the potential running mate for the incumbent President Bola Tinubu. A group known as the North-Central Renaissance Movement has ignited a debate by urging President Tinubu to select a running mate from the North-Central geopolitical zone as a prerequisite for their support in the upcoming election. This demand stems from the Movement’s belief that the North-Central region deserves to hold the Vice Presidency in 2027.
Paragraph 2: The North-Central APC Forum’s Rebuttal
In a swift response, the North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has vehemently rejected the calls for Vice President Kashim Shettima’s replacement. The Forum, through its Chairman Saleh Zazzaga, issued a statement unequivocally reaffirming their unwavering support for the Tinubu-Shettima ticket for the 2027 election. They emphasized that the calls for Shettima’s removal do not represent the views of APC stakeholders in the North-Central, distancing themselves from such suggestions. The Forum expressed satisfaction with Shettima’s performance as Vice President and commended the harmonious working relationship between him and President Tinubu.
Paragraph 3: Dismissal of Disruptive Elements and Emphasis on Progress
The North-Central APC Forum underscored its belief that the calls for Shettima’s replacement are a calculated attempt to disrupt the Tinubu administration’s progress. They urged President Tinubu to disregard such distractions, emphasizing the administration’s significant achievements in repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and development. The Forum praised the Tinubu-Shettima partnership, highlighting the synergy between the two leaders, which they believe has become a source of envy for the opposition, prompting attempts to sow discord within the ruling party.
Paragraph 4: Reaffirmation of Support and Vote Commitment
The Forum reiterated its unwavering commitment to the Tinubu-Shettima ticket, reminding the public of their earlier pledge to deliver six million votes for the duo in the 2027 election. They cited widespread satisfaction among the North-Central electorate with President Tinubu’s performance as the basis for their continued support. Furthermore, the Forum expressed appreciation for the appointments of individuals from the North-Central zone to key positions in the government, including ministerial portfolios and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. They also acknowledged the infrastructural projects being implemented in the region, while welcoming further development initiatives.
Paragraph 5: Highlighting North-Central Representation in Key Ministries
The North-Central APC Forum emphasized the significant representation of their region in President Tinubu’s cabinet. They specifically mentioned several key ministerial positions held by individuals from the North-Central zone, including the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, and the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation. This representation, they argued, demonstrates the President’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable distribution of opportunities.
Paragraph 6: Recapping the Earlier Endorsement and Justification
The Forum’s current stance aligns with their previous endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term in December 2024. This endorsement, they explained, was based on a comprehensive evaluation of the Federal Government’s programs and initiatives. They asserted that no previous president had provided as many opportunities or initiated as many infrastructural projects in the North-Central zone as President Tinubu. This assessment of his performance, coupled with the perceived benefits accrued to the region, solidified their conviction that President Tinubu deserved a second term in office.
