President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been advised to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima with a Christian vice presidential candidate for the 2027 general election to enhance his re-election prospects and promote national unity. The recommendation came from Sunday Asuku, a Nigerian activist and president of the North Central Youth Council, in a statement issued on Monday, May 12, 2025.
Asuku emphasized that Tinubu’s choice of running mate could be pivotal to his success in 2027, arguing that selecting a Christian vice president would address the religious imbalance of the 2023 Muslim-Muslim ticket, which drew criticism for lacking inclusivity. He described the move as not only symbolic but also a “strategic, ethical, and ilising” decision critical for Nigeria’s diverse and pluralistic society. “The 2027 elections will be a test of Nigeria’s commitment to unity, equity, and national cohesion,” Asuku stated, urging Tinubu to seize the opportunity to foster inclusivity.
The activist’s call aligns with sentiments expressed by groups like the Arewa Youth Movement, which in April 2025 suggested that a Northern Christian running mate could strengthen Tinubu’s appeal in key regions like the Middle Belt and Christian-majority areas of the North, where he lost votes in 2023. Posts on X have echoed this perspective, with users like @Tony_Ogbuagu claiming Tinubu is considering figures like Yakubu Dogara, a prominent Christian from Bauchi State, as a potential replacement for Shettima.
Asuku argued that religious balance in leadership remains a “living necessity” in Nigeria, where regional and religious considerations have historically shaped electoral outcomes. He framed the selection of a Christian VP as a bold statement of national unity, essential for countering the fallout from the 2023 ticket and building a broad-based mandate. The suggestion comes amid ongoing discussions about Tinubu’s re-election strategy, with some analysts noting that his 2023 victory, while decisive, faced challenges in states with significant Christian populations, such as Plateau, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, Tinubu’s decision on his running mate will likely be a defining factor in shaping public perception and electoral success, particularly in a country grappling with economic challenges, insecurity, and the need for cohesive governance.
You May Like
Choosing a VP based on religion seems divisive. Shouldnt competence matter more than faith? Lets focus on qualifications.
This article is missing the point. Its about competence, not religion. Lets focus on qualifications, not faith.
I dont see why religion should even be a factor in choosing a VP. Competence and integrity matter more.
I dont think a candidates religion should dictate their VP choice. Competence and integrity matter more. Lets focus on that.
I disagree, VP choice should be based on competency, not religion. Unity comes from inclusivity, not exclusion. Lets focus on qualifications, not faith.