Nentawe Yilwatda Rejects Reports Linking Him to Vice Presidential Position
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has firmly rejected reports suggesting he is being considered as a replacement for Vice President Kashim Shettima on President Bola Tinubu’s proposed 2027 presidential ticket.
Addressing the growing speculation, Yilwatda described the claims as unfounded and insisted that no such discussions have taken place within the ruling party.
APC Yet to Discuss 2027 Ticket Composition
Speaking during a television interview, the APC chairman emphasized that conversations surrounding potential running mates are premature at this stage of the political cycle.
According to him, party leadership remains focused on current governance and organizational matters rather than debates over future electoral pairings. He maintained that decisions relating to presidential candidates and running mates can only emerge after the party completes its internal nomination processes.
For that reason, he argued that reports linking him to the vice-presidential slot have no factual basis.
Claims Described as Political Distraction
Nentawe Yilwatda suggested that many of the rumours may be politically motivated, alleging that certain individuals are attempting to create unnecessary tension within the ruling party.
He stressed that there has been no formal conversation about removing Kashim Shettima from the existing political arrangement, adding that the speculation appears designed to generate controversy rather than inform the public.
The APC chairman further noted that party members should avoid being distracted by narratives that lack official confirmation.
Position on Rivers State Political Crisis
Beyond the issue of the 2027 election, Yilwatda also addressed questions regarding political developments in Rivers State, particularly the ongoing tensions involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor Nyesom Wike.
He clarified that he does not consider the dispute part of his responsibilities as APC national chairman, pointing out that the matter falls outside the direct scope of his office.
Why APC Is Not Intervening in the Dispute
Explaining his position, Yilwatda stated that Nyesom Wike remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), making it inappropriate for the APC leadership to become directly involved in disagreements connected to him.
He emphasized that political parties have distinct structures and that issues concerning members of other parties are generally handled within their respective organizations.
This distinction, he said, is important for maintaining institutional boundaries and preventing unnecessary political interference.
Internal Party Mechanisms Available
On the subject of impeachment-related discussions involving lawmakers in Rivers State, the APC chairman indicated that the party already possesses established channels for addressing disagreements among its members.
Rather than engaging in public confrontations, he advocated for structured dialogue and internal consultation whenever disputes arise.
Gossip News Now reports that Yilwatda believes sensitive political issues are often resolved more effectively through private engagement than through public exchanges.
Call for Responsible Political Leadership
The APC chairman concluded by encouraging political actors to approach disagreements with restraint and maturity.
He stressed that confidentiality, dialogue, and respect for party procedures remain essential ingredients for resolving conflicts and preserving unity within political organizations.
According to Yilwatda, effective leadership requires focusing on solutions rather than amplifying divisions, particularly during periods of heightened political speculation.
Commentary and Analysis
The response from Nentawe Yilwatda reflects an effort by APC leadership to contain early discussions surrounding the 2027 presidential race. By dismissing speculation about replacing Kashim Shettima, the party appears keen to project stability and avoid internal distractions.
His comments on Rivers State also underline a broader political principle: parties often prefer to manage their own affairs internally while avoiding involvement in disputes linked to rival organizations. As political activities gradually intensify ahead of future elections, similar rumours and strategic positioning are likely to remain a recurring feature of Nigeria’s political landscape.
