The All Progressives Congress has dismissed reports suggesting a shake-up of its 2027 presidential ticket.
The party described the claims as misleading.
According to APC leaders, Vice President Kashim Shettima remains firmly on the ticket.
The denial followed intense public debate triggered by comments from a cabinet minister.
Moreover, the controversy came at a sensitive time for the ruling party. Speculation had been building quietly within political spaces.
However, the APC moved fast to shut it down.
In a statement released on January 26, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka addressed the issue.
He reacted to an interview granted by Culture Minister Hannatu Musawa. In that interview, she warned about the political risks of altering the 2023 Muslim-Muslim ticket.
Musawa said, “If there is no Hausa, Fulani or Kanuri Muslim on that ticket, it creates a hurdle. That is the reality of the way people think.”
Her comments were made during a wide-ranging discussion. The conversation also touched on lifestyle topics like real estate interests and golf club culture.
Meanwhile, her remarks fueled fresh rumours about Vice President Shettima’s future. Some reports even named possible replacements.
However, Morka strongly rejected the narrative. He said the stories were “purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless.”
The APC further warned officials to avoid careless public comments. Ministers and party leaders were urged to stay disciplined.
According to Morka, distractions could weaken public trust.
The statement read, “We urge media organisations to refrain from lending their platforms to rumour-peddlers.”
It also called out “mischievous ‘news sources’ of questionable provenance.”
Therefore, the party asked for calm and restraint.
In addition, Morka reminded the public that political activities remain restricted by law.
Campaign discussions for 2027 are not yet permitted.
Furthermore, the APC said its priority remains governance. Support for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima was reaffirmed.
The administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda was highlighted as the focus.
The statement noted ongoing economic reforms and social policies. These efforts were described as already improving livelihoods.
Progress, it said, must not be overshadowed by rumours.
The party rarely addresses internal speculation so directly.
At least twice, APC denies Shettima replacement narratives have surfaced.
Each time, the party has stood by its ticket.
Consequently, the message appears consistent.
