Mustapha Salihu, the National Vice Chairman (North-East) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has weighed in on the rumored tension between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, dismissing the speculation as baseless and driven by individuals he described as “conflict entrepreneurs.”
There have been claims that Vice President Shettima is being sidelined in government affairs, particularly regarding President Tinubu’s reluctance to delegate power during his extended trips abroad. The vice president’s absence from key events, especially those where Tinubu receives endorsements for a second term, has further fueled talk that the President may be considering a new running mate for the 2027 election.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television Monday night, Salihu addressed the rumors, saying, “Party affairs are not managed through social media or television. These matters are dealt with internally.”
He added that such rumors are common in any administration and are often the product of speculation by insecure political actors.
“People will always try to stir up stories of conflict between a leader and their deputy. It’s part of politics. But confident politicians don’t get distracted by that noise,” he said.
Salihu also refuted claims of unrest within the APC’s North-East zone, asserting that the region remains united and active.
“I’m currently in Yola and have interacted with party members from Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, and Yobe. We even spent the night before the summit working together and exchanging ideas,” he noted.