The Concerned Northern APC Youth Forum has cautioned against any attempt to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such a move could trigger serious political consequences for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued in Kano and signed by its chairman, Hon. Suleiman Liba, the group warned some top APC stakeholders against what it described as efforts to mislead President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the “sensitive and consequential” issue of altering the current presidential ticket.

The forum said its support for President Tinubu in the 2023 election was based largely on trust in his political judgment, particularly his decision to pick Senator Kashim Shettima as running mate.

According to Liba, the Tinubu–Shettima ticket symbolised balance, inclusiveness, competence and national cohesion, adding that the partnership was central to the widespread support the APC enjoyed in the North.

“Our support for Mr President was anchored on trust, balance, inclusiveness and strategic political judgment. The Tinubu–Shettima ticket represented competence, continuity and national cohesion. Any attempt to alter this foundational understanding is unacceptable to us,” he said.

The group condemned what it described as a growing narrative by “anti-democratic and self-serving elements” calling for the replacement of the vice president with a Northern Christian candidate, insisting that such agitation was divisive and disconnected from political reality.

The forum warned that any move to drop Vice President Shettima would force it to reassess and possibly withdraw its political allegiance to the APC, stressing that northern youths played a decisive role in the party’s victory in 2023.

“We started this journey together, and we intend to finish it together. Our expectation is clear: we look forward to 2031 with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima completing this mandate side by side,” Liba stated.

The group urged President Tinubu to ignore what it called misleading counsel and to remain committed to the partnership that produced the Renewed Hope Agenda.

It further warned that those pushing for Shettima’s replacement should not expect the votes, goodwill and grassroots support of northern APC youths if such a decision is taken.

The forum reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, party unity and national development, but stressed that these ideals must not come at the expense of trust, equity and political integrity.