BREAKING: 2027: Tinubu Considers Bishop Kukah As Running Mate

Fresh political discussions within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) suggest that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is quietly weighing potential vice-presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 general election.

Credible sources told Ibom Focus that the President is assessing four prominent northern Christian figures as part of an emerging strategy to balance religion and geography on the presidential ticket. Those reportedly under consideration include former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara; Defence Minister, Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd); Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang; and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah.

Multiple sources across print, broadcast and online media have consistently mentioned the same names as being in serious circulation within APC power circles.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, members of the President’s inner circle have been reviewing these options as part of early strategic planning for the 2027 race.

Political analysts note that all four potential candidates hail from predominantly Christian states in northern Nigeria, a factor believed to be central to the calculations. Observers say the move is aimed at addressing long-standing concerns about religious balance at the highest level of government.

Under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, the President retains full authority to select a running mate from any part of the country, provided constitutional requirements are met.

The renewed debate comes amid lingering criticism of the Muslim–Muslim ticket adopted by the APC during the 2023 presidential election. That decision sparked widespread debate within Nigeria and attracted international attention, including comments from U.S. officials who urged more inclusive representation in federal governance.
While no official confirmation has come from the Presidency or the APC, political watchers say discussions around a more religiously balanced ticket are likely to intensify as the 2027 election cycle draws closer.