APC Youth Parliament Rejects Calls To Drop Shettima, Faults Dogara's Intervention

By Khalid Idris Doya 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Parliament has described former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, as a desperate politician who has lost political relevance.

The group accused Dogara of working against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election and now seeking relevance ahead of the 2027 general elections through divisive political statements.

Speaking to journalists in Bauchi on yesterday, the Chairman of the APC Youth Parliament, Kabiru Garba Kobi, dismissed rumours suggesting that President Tinubu may replace Vice President Kashim Shettima with a Northern Christian running mate in 2027, describing the speculation as dangerous, misleading, and politically motivated.

Kobi said the APC Youth Parliament had welcomed the endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) at the 2026 National Summit of former lawmakers, describing it as a positive development for Nigeria's growth and stability.

However, he expressed concern that 17 former members of the National Assembly later distanced themselves from the endorsement, an action he said was being exploited by certain political actors to create confusion within the ruling party.

Reacting to Dogara's interview on a Channels Television programme, Sunday Politics, where the former Speaker called for justice and inclusiveness in power-sharing arrangements, Kobi accused Dogara of pursuing personal ambition rather than national unity.

"All these statements made by Dogara are not driven by religious concerns or justice. He is simply seeking relevance for himself," Kobi said.

"If progress is truly the goal, what exactly is wrong with the way the Tinubu/Shettima administration is being run? So much has already been achieved."

Kobi warned that any attempt to replace Vice President Shettima ahead of the 2027 elections would be a grave political mistake that could cost President Tinubu massive support across the North, particularly in the North-East.

"Senator Kashim Shettima has proven himself to be an effective Vice President who has faithfully discharged his responsibilities. Those calling for his replacement are only trying to create discord and crisis within the APC," he said.

According to Kobi, Shettima remains the most unifying political figure in the North-East and a critical bridge between the region and the rest of the country, "Shettima delivered votes for Tinubu in 2023 even before becoming Vice President. Now that he is in office, he will do even more to ensure a resounding victory in 2027," Kobi added.

The APC Youth Parliament Chairman further alleged that some of those pushing the replacement narrative neither contributed to the party's victory in 2023 nor supported Tinubu's candidacy at the time.

Describing Vice President Shettima as visionary, humble, and patriotic, Kobi said his leadership continues to inspire young Nigerians nationwide.

He warned that undermining Shettima’s position would not only divide the APC but also alienate millions of Northern voters whose support remains critical to the party’s electoral success.

The group issued a warning to those seeking to hinder Shettima or undermine his efforts, saying such actions would attract its wrath.