Fresh political calculations ahead of the 2027 presidential election are reportedly fueling uncertainty over the future of Vice President Kashim Shettima, as conversations intensify within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eventual choice of running mate.

Although the presidency and the APC have repeatedly dismissed rumours of cracks within the administration, growing behind-the-scenes consultations are said to be heightening tension among party loyalists and northern political blocs closely monitoring developments ahead of the next election cycle.

Sources within political circles say uncertainty surrounding Tinubu’s 2027 strategy has triggered quiet lobbying by influential stakeholders seeking to protect regional interests and maintain political relevance within the ruling party.

Speculation has grown louder amid increasing debate over whether the APC will retain the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket that secured victory in 2023 or adopt a fresh political formula capable of broadening support ahead of another fiercely contested election.

While Shettima has remained publicly loyal and largely avoided commenting on the matter, insiders say supporters of the vice president are becoming increasingly uneasy over persistent rumours linking several northern politicians to the vice-presidential slot.

Some APC chieftains are reportedly arguing that retaining Shettima would preserve stability within the party and reassure northern loyalists who strongly backed the Tinubu-Shettima alliance during the last election.

Others, however, are believed to be quietly advocating for a strategic political reshuffle they say could strengthen the party’s chances in key regions where opposition figures continue to gain influence.

The growing uncertainty has reignited conversations around power balancing, zoning and internal calculations within the APC, as political camps gradually position themselves ahead of 2027.

Observers say the silence from the presidency on Tinubu’s long-term electoral strategy has only deepened speculation, especially among party members eager to understand the president’s next political move.

Within northern political circles, discussions surrounding Shettima’s future have reportedly become more sensitive due to concerns about preserving the region’s influence in the current administration.

Some analysts believe any attempt to replace the vice president could trigger resistance from sections of the North-East political establishment, where Shettima continues to command strong loyalty following his years as governor of Borno State and his role in the APC power structure.

Despite the mounting speculation, APC officials have continued to publicly deny reports suggesting there are plans to drop the vice president from the 2027 ticket.

However, with political realignments already taking shape across party lines, insiders believe conversations over Tinubu’s running mate may continue to dominate internal APC politics long before official campaign activities begin.

For now, Shettima remains at the centre of one of the most closely watched political questions ahead of 2027 — whether President Tinubu will maintain continuity or spring a surprise capable of reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape once again.