The Federal Government has denied reports of a schism between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, claiming that both leaders remain unified and continue to work “perfectly” together.
Speculation has erupted in recent weeks over an alleged feud between the President and his deputy, with rumors circulating that Tinubu may seek a different running mate for the 2027 presidential race.
However, in an interview with Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Wednesday, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris described the claims as the result of public imagination.
He stated, “This feud exists in the minds of those who wish to believe it. I was in the chamber where the President and Vice President walked closely together. I am talking about recently.”
When asked if the President was considering dropping Shettima for the next election, the minister responded firmly.
He said, “Who told you that?” Did you hear Shettima’s name when President Tinubu first received the ticket? The president chooses his or her running mate.
“He’s picked Kashim Shettima. They function perfectly together. I haven’t seen any sign that the President wants to remove his vice president.
The APC’s North-East endorsement sparked political debate.
The dispute erupted after the North-East leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Mustapha Salihu, officially supported President Tinubu’s 2027 aspiration without mentioning Vice President Shettima.
The absence reportedly spurred Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum to lead a protest against the perceived disrespect to Shettima, an area native.
Unconfirmed claims circulated that Shettima had once been refused access to the President at the Villa, a charge the government now categorically denies.
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Idris reacted to the report by saying, “Not see the President in this country?” This isn’t the Atiku-Obasanjo scenario. We have a Tinubu-Shettima relationship. They have come a long way and are performing well.”
The Minister further stated that Vice President Shettima continues to represent the President at official functions and has the complete trust of his principal.
He went on to say, “Just yesterday, he represented the President at the banquet hall.” Every day of the week, you will witness the Vice President speak on behalf of the President.
“Has Vice President Kashim Shettima ever told you that he has a problem with the President?”
