A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, has strongly criticized the reported decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election, warning that Christians across Nigeria may not support another Muslim-Muslim ticket. Vatsa, a former Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, described the move as a “direct insult” to the Christian community, calling it politically insensitive and potentially damaging to the APC’s electoral prospects. He emphasized that the circumstances that justified the same-faith ticket in 2023 no longer exist, especially given the heightened security concerns and perceived marginalization of Christians in recent years.
In a statement released in Minna on Saturday, Vatsa expressed deep concern over the direction the ruling party is taking. He stated that the decision to reprise the Muslim-Muslim ticket was a “grievous mistake” that could cost the APC crucial Christian votes in the upcoming election. According to him, those behind the decision “did not mean well” for President Tinubu or the party’s long-term political survival. He argued that with the current climate of insecurity and rising religious tensions, the public would find it difficult to accept another ticket that does not reflect religious balance.
Vatsa pointed out that the APC would face significant challenges in convincing Christians to support its presidential ticket if other political parties field Christian candidates. “What do you expect us to tell the Christian community, to vote for another Muslim-Muslim ticket?” he asked, highlighting the emotional and political weight of the issue. He further noted that Christians already feel insecure and would be more comfortable with a Christian vice-presidential candidate, especially in a country where religious harmony is often under strain.
The APC stalwart clarified that his criticism is not directed at Vice President Shettima or the Muslim community as a whole. “I have nothing against the Vice President or the Muslim community,” he said. “I am speaking for equity, justice and fairness in the political arrangement of the country.” His comments come amid growing calls for inclusive political representation across Nigeria’s diverse religious and ethnic groups. Vatsa also recently urged Niger State Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago to pick a Christian running mate for the 2027 governorship election, reinforcing his stance on balanced political representation.
The controversy underscores the delicate nature of Nigeria’s political landscape, where religious affiliations often influence voter behavior. As the 2027 elections draw closer, the APC’s decision on its vice-presidential candidate will be closely watched, especially by Christian voters who feel their interests are being sidelined. The party’s ability to address these concerns may determine its success in maintaining national unity and electoral dominance.
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