2027:: APC Youth Parliament Slams Dogara, Warns Against Shettima Replacement.

From Paul Orude Bauchi 

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 and is seeking attention ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group accused Dogara of working against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election and now attempting to reinsert himself into national politics through what it called divisive and misleading statements.

Speaking to journalists in Bauchi on Tuesday, 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.

Kobi described the speculation as dangerous, politically motivated, and capable of undermining national unity.

He said the Youth Parliament welcomed the endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) during its 2026 National Summit, describing the endorsement as a positive signal for Nigeria’s stability and development.

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

Reacting to Dogara’s comments during a Channels Television programme, Sunday Politics, where the former Speaker called for justice and inclusiveness in power-sharing, Kobi accused Dogara of pursuing personal ambition rather than genuine national interest.

“All these statements made by Dogara are not driven by concerns for justice or inclusiveness. He is simply seeking relevance,” Kobi said.

“If progress is truly the objective, what exactly is wrong with the way the Tinubu–Shettima administration is being run? So much has already been achieved within a short period.”

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

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

said.

According to him, Shettima remains one of the most unifying political figures in the North-East and a vital 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 many of those pushing the replacement narrative neither contributed meaningfully 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 across the country.

He warned that any attempt to undermine 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 cautioned political actors against actions capable of destabilising the party, warning that any move to hinder the Vice President’s efforts would be strongly resisted.