Rumours suggest a rift between President Tinubu and Shettima…
Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and NNPP chieftain Rabiu Kwankwaso, describing both as influential political figures regardless of party lines.
Speaking at a book launch in Abuja on Thursday, Shettima said, “Hate him, love him, but you can’t ignore him,” while calling El-Rufai “the enfant terrible of the Nigerian Governors’ Club.”
He also referred to Kwankwaso as “the fire-spitting leader of the Kwankwassiyya Movement,” emphasizing that “all politicians in Nigeria are one” in their commitment to national development.
His comments come amid speculation of political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. Rumours suggest a rift between President Tinubu and Shettima, with claims that Tinubu may consider replacing Shettima with Kwankwaso as his running mate.
Meanwhile, the Atiku Abubakar-led coalition, which includes El-Rufai, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi, has reportedly vowed to unseat Tinubu. However, critics argue the coalition lacks unity, as its members are allegedly unwilling to cede ambition for one another.
APC chieftains have dismissed the rumoured rift as unfounded.