The Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has warned that the All Progressives Congress (APC) risks damaging its electoral prospects in the 2027 general election if it drops a Northern Muslim from President Bola Tinubu’s re-election ticket.
Musawa made the remarks during a recent episode of Mic On Show with journalist Seun Okinbaloye, amid speculation that the ruling party may reconsider the Muslim–Muslim presidential ticket adopted in the 2023 election.
According to the minister, removing Vice President Kashim Shettima or replacing him with a running mate who is not a Northern Muslim would create serious political challenges for the APC, particularly in its traditional strongholds across Northern Nigeria.
“If there is no Hausa, Fulani or Kanuri Muslim on that ticket, it creates a hurdle. That is the reality of the way people think,” Musawa said.
Northern Politics Is Deeply Rooted — Musawa
Musawa stressed that politics in the core northern states is complex and deeply ingrained, warning that decisions taken without a proper understanding of the region could backfire.
She cited states such as Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Jigawa, Zamfara and Sokoto, describing politics there as a way of life.
“The core North understands politics at a very deep level. People wait every four years to line up and vote because that is where they feel they have influence,” she said.
She dismissed suggestions that the APC could easily alter its presidential ticket without consequences, describing such views as politically naive.
“I think if we toy with changing the construct of what we have now, it is a problem. People who suggest otherwise may not fully understand how politics works in the North,” Musawa added.
Minister Downplays Opposition Threat Ahead of 2027
Addressing concerns about growing opposition alliances ahead of the 2027 election, Musawa said she does not see the current configuration of opposition parties posing a serious threat to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.
She described the opposition as fragmented, with several political figures competing for the same leadership space.
“You have an opposition that is overcrowded. Every single member is vying for the same spot, and that alone creates a recipe for political failure,” she said.
While acknowledging that opposition figures remain influential, Musawa maintained that the APC remains confident of retaining power.
“We are not taking anybody lightly. But as the opposition is emerging now, I do not see how they can unseat President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima,” she said.
APC Focused on Consolidation, Says Minister
Musawa added that although the APC welcomes a strong opposition in the interest of democratic development, the ruling party is focused on consolidating its political base ahead of the next election.
“It is good for democracy to have opposition. Nobody wants a one-party state. But we are confident in our political direction,” she said.
