A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has warned that ongoing political maneuvering to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 elections could pose a significant distraction to the presidency.
Oyintiloye issued the warning in a statement he personally signed and released on Sunday. The former lawmaker expressed concern that individuals already positioning themselves for the vice presidency are undermining the administration’s ability to focus on governance at a critical time in the country’s development.
According to him, the premature power tussle, more than a year and a half ahead of the next general election, is not only inappropriate but also potentially damaging to national progress.
“Some people are already jostling to be Vice President,” Oyintiloye said. “The President is facing serious tasks to keep the economy healthy, defeat the evil of insurgency, and fix critical infrastructure that are not being supported anymore. The noise-making of these political opportunists, hell-bent on causing distractions, is capable of slowing down progress.”
He emphasized that President Tinubu inherited a fragile and troubled economy when he assumed office in 2023. This included a high national debt burden and a struggling infrastructure base. In such a context, Oyintiloye believes the focus should be on supporting the president’s economic and security reforms rather than stirring political instability.
Oyintiloye described the ongoing agitation for political appointments and positioning as “nauseating” and “absurd,” particularly when the next election is still a considerable time away. He urged political actors to show restraint and allow the President to concentrate on solving the country’s pressing problems.
“It is becoming nauseating, to say the least. The 2027 election is still over a year and a half away, and yet those chasing positions won’t allow the president to work. That must stop forthwith,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to prioritize national interest over personal political ambitions, urging the political class to rally around the President rather than fueling speculations about changes in the vice presidency or other high-profile roles.
Oyintiloye also pointed out that the economic challenges faced by the administration are far from over. He warned that sustained distractions would undermine recovery efforts and destabilize the gains made so far in areas such as fiscal reform, foreign exchange management, and infrastructure development.
“Distracting him with who gets what ahead of 2027 and even 2031 elections is absurd and uncalled for. What the president needs at this point in time is our collective support, prayers, solidarity, and not unnecessary clamour for power struggle ahead of 2027,” he stated.
The APC chieftain’s remarks reflect growing internal concerns within the ruling party over early political campaigns and speculations surrounding changes to the presidential ticket. Although there is no official indication that Vice President Shettima will be replaced, some party insiders and political figures have begun lobbying for potential inclusion in the 2027 ticket.
These developments have stirred unease within the APC, especially among those who believe the current focus should be on fulfilling campaign promises and stabilizing the country rather than premature jostling for future political office.
Oyintiloye’s comments add to ongoing discourse about the responsibilities of political elites during a non-election period. As inflation, unemployment, and insecurity continue to challenge Nigeria’s socio-economic environment, voices within the ruling party are beginning to urge greater discipline and commitment to governance.
He concluded his statement by reaffirming that the future of the country depends on the ability of its leaders and citizens to prioritize stability, good governance, and national unity over personal ambition and political gain.
With over eighteen months left before the 2027 elections, Oyintiloye’s warning appears aimed at resetting the tone of political engagement within the APC and among its allies. Whether it will influence ongoing political maneuvers remains to be seen.
