Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, has cautioned that if the All Progressives Congress removes a Shettima from President Bola Tinubu’s reelection ticket, it could jeopardise its chances in the general election of 2027.
Amid mounting rumours that the ruling party would think about changing the Muslim-Muslim ticket used in the 2023 presidential election, Musawa made the comments during a recent episode of Mic On Show with journalist Seun Okinbaloye.
The minister claims that the APC would have significant political difficulties if Shettima were to be removed or replaced with a non-Northern Muslim running mate, especially in the central northern states.
“If there is no Hausa, Fulani or Kanuri Muslim on that ticket, it creates a hurdle. That is the reality of the way people think,” Musawa said.
She emphasised how deeply ingrained and complex Northern Nigerian politics are, cautioning that actions made without a thorough grasp of the area could backfire.
Claims that the APC could simply rearrange its presidential ticket without repercussions were rejected by Musawa, who called such presumptions politically stupid.
“I think if we toy with changing the construct of what we have now, it is a problem. People who suggest otherwise may not fully understand how politics works in the North,” she said.
In response to concerns about expanding opposition coalitions before 2027, Musawa stated that she does not envision President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima being overthrown by the opposition forces as they currently stand.
She described the opposition as dispersed, with multiple political leaders vying for the same leadership post.
“You have an opposition that is overcrowded. Every single member is vying for the same spot, and that alone creates a recipe for political failure,” Musawa said.
While acknowledging that opposition figures remain active and influential, she insisted that the APC remains confident of retaining power.
“We are not taking anybody lightly. But as the opposition is emerging now, I do not see how they can unseat President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima,” she said.
Additionally, Musawa stated that although the APC welcomes a strong opposition in the interest of democratic growth, the ruling party is focused on consolidating its political base ahead of the next election.
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