By Charles Pemu 
Tensions flared within the All Progressives Congress (APC) after speculation that President Bola Tinubu might drop Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 election triggered violent scenes at a North-East stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe.
Chaos erupted when APC National Vice Chairman (North-East), Mustapha Salihu, endorsed Tinubu for re-election but failed to mention Shettima. Supporters chanted “Shettima! Shettima!!” before attacking Salihu on stage.
The omission fueled suspicions, prompting threats from delegates to withdraw northern support if Shettima is replaced. Party leaders scrambled to contain the fallout, with Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, insisting the Tinubu-Shettima ticket is “non-negotiable.”
APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje condemned the violence and reaffirmed confidence in both Tinubu and Shettima, while former Minister Adebayo Shittu warned the party not to tamper with a “winning team.”
Though the Presidency has not confirmed any change, insiders suggest political realignment is under consideration. Salihu later clarified that only the presidential candidate has the authority to choose a running mate.
The APC now faces a crucial test to preserve internal unity as 2027 approaches.