By Joy Odor, Reportcircle News
The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday moved to quash swirling rumors about the possible replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima as running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the speculations as “utterly baseless, misleading, and divisive.”
In a press statement issued from the party headquarters in Abuja, APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, CON, expressed concern over the growing media frenzy, warning that some reports were being driven by “mischievous sources of questionable provenance” whose aim is to create discord and confusion in the polity.
“These stories are purely speculative and untrue,” Morka stated. “We call on media organizations to exercise caution and refrain from amplifying unfounded claims that could destabilize public confidence and distract from the progress of our administration.”
The APC emphasized that political activities remain banned under electoral regulations at this stage, and that the party remains firmly focused on supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda, a programme credited with transforming the economy, building prosperity, and improving the living conditions of Nigerians.
Senior ministers and party officials were specifically cautioned against contributing, intentionally or inadvertently, to the circulation of unverified reports.
Morka stressed that their primary responsibility is to bolster the success of President Tinubu’s administration through diligent service and policy implementation, rather than engage in rumor-driven politics.
“Every APC leader, minister, and official must channel their energies toward advancing the achievements of President Tinubu our visionary and inimitable leader and not indulge in speculation that serves no purpose other than creating confusion,” the statement read.
The statement comes amid increasing media chatter and social media posts that suggested possible changes to Tinubu’s 2027 running mate, a topic that has recently gained traction in both traditional and digital platforms.
APC’s strong response signals a zero-tolerance approach to political rumour-mongering and a deliberate attempt to maintain internal cohesion as the party positions itself for the 2027 elections.
The party concluded by reaffirming its commitment to issue-based governance, national development, and the continued success of the Renewed Hope Agenda, signaling that speculation about running mates would neither distract the leadership nor derail strategic electoral preparations.
