Political insiders say President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is discreetly weighing a shortlist of northern Christian leaders as potential running mates ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
According to media reports, four prominent figures are said to be under consideration within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). They include former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara; the Minister of Defence, retired Lieutenant-General Christopher Musa; Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang; and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah.
Sources familiar with the discussions say the ongoing evaluation is part of a broader strategy aimed at achieving religious and regional balance on the ticket. All the names reportedly being considered are from northern states with significant Christian populations. Analysts note that the 1999 Constitution places no restriction on where a presidential candidate may pick a running mate from, giving the APC wide latitude in its choice.
The renewed speculation follows sustained criticism of the Muslim–Muslim presidential ticket adopted by the APC during the 2023 general election, a decision that attracted intense debate both within Nigeria and internationally.
Online reactions to the reported shortlist have been mixed. While some Nigerians have openly endorsed Defence Minister Christopher Musa, citing his security background, others have cautioned against placing too much emphasis on religion, arguing that competence, leadership capacity and performance should be the overriding factors.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the emerging debate underscores the complex political calculations facing APC strategists, who are expected to carefully balance religious sensitivities, regional interests and electoral strength in deciding the party’s next vice-presidential candidate.
I have been reporting on latest news from Nigeria for almost 10 years now. I report on every possible news area I come across, but always ensure my reports are compiled with dignity and fact to uphold my personal values and duty as a journalist
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