2027: Dogara Kukah Gen Musa Tipped As Possible Replacements for Shettima

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Reports indicate that President Bola Tinubu is under pressure to present a religion-balanced ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sources told Daily Sun that foreign stakeholders, particularly from the United States, have expressed interest in a Muslim-Christian pairing for Tinubu as he seeks re-election.

According to the sources, discussions to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima on the ticket have been circulating since the mid-term of the current administration. While most APC governors support retaining Shettima, some influential figures close to President Tinubu reportedly favour a Christian running mate.

Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, is reportedly leading the list of potential vice presidential candidates. Others mentioned include former House of Representatives Speaker Rt. Hon Yakubu Dogara and Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen Christopher Musa.

Before the call for a religion-balanced ticket, options considered for Shettima’s replacement included former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari or National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. However, the recent emphasis on a Muslim-Christian ticket has reshaped these considerations.

The Tinubu camp is reportedly exploring ways to provide Shettima with incentives if he is dropped from the 2027 ticket. Options being discussed include appointing him as Nigeria’s permanent representative at the United Nations and supporting his potential presidential bid in 2031.

The 2031 option faces a caveat, however, as U.S. stakeholders reportedly suggest that the presidency should rotate to the Southeast after Tinubu’s tenure, as part of efforts to promote national healing and inclusivity.

While Bishop Kukah is a leading contender for the vice presidency under a religion-balanced ticket, questions remain over whether he would accept a political role and whether the Vatican would release him for such an assignment. Sources said he would only be approached if Tinubu’s team agrees to comply with the Muslim-Christian ticket requirement.

Political analysts told Daily Sun that U.S. interest in Nigeria’s electoral process, especially regarding Christian representation, is consistent with America’s recent attention to Nigeria’s religious and political landscape.

TAGS: President Bola Tinubu