2027 Presidency: Musa, Bishop Kukah, Dogara tipped to replace Shettima as Tinubu’s VP
Fresh political pressure is building around President Bola Tinubu’s expected re-election bid in 2027, as demands intensify for a more religiously balanced presidential ticket ahead of the next general election.
Sources familiar with the development said influential interests, including voices linked to the United States, are reportedly pushing for Tinubu to adopt a Muslim-Christian pairing in 2027, a shift that could reshape calculations within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The renewed agitation has also revived conversations around the possible replacement of Vice President Kassim Shettima, whose continued place on the ticket, insiders say, has been debated within political circles since the administration crossed its mid-term point.
Names being floated for vice presidential slot
According to information gathered, several names are being discreetly mentioned as possible options should Tinubu decide to pursue a religiously balanced ticket.
Among those reportedly being considered is the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, who sources said is currently one of the top figures being tipped for the position.
Also mentioned in the emerging discussions are former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, and Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Christopher Musa.
While Dogara is from Bauchi State, both Kukah and Gen Musa are linked to Kaduna State.
APC split over Shettima’s fate
Within the APC, the debate appears far from settled.
While many governors of the ruling party are said to favour keeping Shettima on the ticket in 2027, sources said some influential figures close to the presidency reportedly want him replaced—initially with another Muslim running mate.
Before reports of external pressure for a Muslim-Christian ticket surfaced, the names of former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, were said to be among those earlier discussed as possible alternatives.
However, the new push for religious balance is said to have complicated that route, potentially closing the door on another Muslim vice-presidential candidate.
Tinubu camp weighing compensation options for Shettima
Sources further claimed that conversations are ongoing within the Tinubu political camp on how to manage the political implications of dropping Shettima, if it eventually happens.
Among the options reportedly being explored is a possible appointment as Nigeria’s permanent representative to the United Nations, or support for Shettima to contest the presidency in 2031.
But insiders say the 2031 plan faces uncertainty amid growing arguments—reportedly also backed by interests abroad—that power should rotate to the South-East after Tinubu, as part of a wider effort to promote inclusion and ease political tension in the country.
Doubts over Kukah’s willingness to enter politics
Even among those pushing for Bishop Kukah, concerns remain over whether the cleric would agree to participate in partisan politics, and whether the Vatican would approve such a move if it is formally proposed.
Sources said Kukah may only be approached if the Tinubu camp fully decides to restructure the ticket to reflect a Muslim-Christian combination.
Political observers believe foreign interest in Nigeria’s election dynamics may not be unexpected, particularly amid rising international concerns over faith-related violence.
The report comes against the backdrop of renewed global attention on Nigeria over claims of attacks and killings targeting Christian communities, a subject that has increasingly featured in discussions among foreign policy actors and rights advocates.
