By chatnewstv.com
ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has begun quietly evaluating strategic shifts for his 2027 reelection bid, with internal discussions centering on the selection of a Northern Christian running mate to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima, according to high-level sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move signals a significant departure from the controversial “Muslim-Muslim” ticket that propelled the party to victory in 2023, as strategists look to heal religious rifts and broaden the President’s national appeal.
According to multiple political insiders familiar with the consultations, four prominent Northern figures have emerged as frontrunners: former Speaker of the House of Representatives Yakubu Dogara, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah.
“These are not formal campaign activities yet, but high-level political assessments,” said an APC National Working Committee member who spoke on condition of anonymity. “The leadership is looking at 2027 through the lens of national inclusion. We won in 2023, but the religious friction was a heavy price to pay. The President is listening to the concerns of the people and the international community.”
A Strategy of Inclusion
The 2023 pairing of Tinubu and Shettima—both Muslims—shattered a long-standing unwritten rule of religious balancing in Nigerian presidential tickets. While constitutional experts note that the 1999 Constitution grants a candidate full discretion over their running mate, the move drew sharp rebukes from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and civil society groups.
“Symbolism matters deeply in a country as diverse as ours,” said Dr. Emeka Njoku, a political analyst. “By signaling openness to a Northern Christian, the Tinubu camp is attempting to neutralize opposition narratives that the APC is a religiously exclusive party.”
The Contenders
The shortlist reportedly reflects a mix of legislative experience, security expertise, and moral authority:
Yakubu Dogara: A veteran lawmaker from Bauchi State, Dogara has long been a vocal advocate for Northern Christians and possesses the legislative network to bridge regional divides.
Gen. Christopher Musa: Currently the nation’s top military officer, Musa’s perceived neutrality and focus on national security have made him a “technocratic” favorite among those prioritizing stability.
Gov. Caleb Mutfwang: As the Governor of Plateau State, Mutfwang represents a strategic grassroots base in the Middle Belt, a region critical for any winning presidential coalition.
Bishop Matthew Kukah: Though an unconventional choice for a secular ticket, Kukah’s name is frequently mentioned due to his status as a “moral compass” for the nation. Sources say his inclusion represents a desire for a candidate with “unassailable integrity.”
Looking Toward 2027
While the discussions are gaining momentum in Abuja circles, party insiders caution that the political landscape remains fluid.
“There is no finality yet,” a senior presidency aide noted. “The President remains focused on his current mandate, but in politics, you don’t wait until the eve of the election to plan your path. We are weighing all options to ensure a more united Nigeria.”
As the APC prepares for the next electoral cycle, the shift toward a more balanced ticket suggests that the lessons of 2023 are being integrated into the party’s blueprint for a second term.
