Tensions Escalate: Zulum, Ndume’s Criticism Fuels Rift Over 2027 VP Ticket

Rising political friction within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified speculation over Vice President Kashim Shettima’s future, with insiders revealing that actions by two of his closest allies—Governor Babagana Zulum and Senator Ali Ndume—are causing serious unease within the party.

Party sources told Sunday Punch that growing criticism from Zulum and Ndume has created a perception crisis for Shettima, possibly jeopardizing his re-selection as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 elections.

Zulum, once Shettima’s political protégé, has recently voiced strong disapproval of the Tinubu administration’s tax policies and its handling of insecurity in the North-East. During a tense APC stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe on June 15, Zulum reportedly clashed with party leadership over the omission of Shettima’s name in the endorsement of Tinubu’s re-election bid. Delegates loyal to Shettima erupted in protest, chanting his name and confronting the party’s North-East Zonal Vice Chairman, Mustapha Salihu.

The situation worsened due to Senator Ndume’s persistent outbursts against Tinubu’s leadership. His criticism led the APC National Working Committee to request his removal as Senate Majority Whip, citing “unbecoming behavior” for a senior party member.

While it remains unclear whether Ndume still aligns with Shettima, the party fears the combined dissent from these two Borno heavyweights is undermining the Vice President’s credibility and weakening his political support.

An APC official said, “Shettima is struggling with how his closest associates keep openly challenging the government. It reflects poorly on his influence and loyalty.”

As the 2027 race intensifies, insiders report that at least two top National Assembly members and four governors—two each from the North-East and North-West—are already eyeing the vice-presidential seat, with one potential replacement allegedly from Shettima’s own inner circle.

Though there is no formal decision yet on Shettima’s removal, his position is now seen as vulnerable, as intra-party positioning and strategic lobbying grow behind the scenes.