Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir, the National Chairman of the Ulam’u Council of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against dropping Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate in the 2027 elections.
Speaking during a sermon at the Yantaya Mosque in Jos, Plateau State, the influential Islamic cleric said continued support for Tinubu’s re-election bid would depend on Shettima remaining on the ticket.
“I supported them without collecting a single kobo. Though I am close to Atiku Abubakar, I chose to vote for Tinubu and Shettima,” Sheik Jingir declared. “Any attempt to drop Shettima, I won’t support it. They had earlier agreed to contest and work together.”
His remarks come amid growing speculation within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that President Tinubu may consider replacing Shettima in 2027—a move that has triggered concerns among key northern figures and political watchers.
Sheik Jingir dismissed the speculation as a ploy by “unpatriotic elements” trying to drive a wedge between the president and his deputy, urging Tinubu to remain focused and resist political distractions.
“There are rumours that things aren’t going well between them, but I don’t believe it. It’s the handiwork of their enemies. The President must not allow himself to be misled,” he added.
