The All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, a northern Christian, as its new National Chairman. This move has reignited speculation about the party's potential Muslim-Muslim ticket for the 2027 presidential election.
The APC's Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 election sparked controversy, with critics alleging an Islamization agenda. The party's decision to appoint a Christian chairman has been seen as a strategic move to soften opposition to a potential repeat of the Muslim-Muslim ticket.
Some Christian leaders have welcomed Yilwatda's appointment, seeing it as a positive step towards inclusivity. However, others have expressed concerns that the move may be a tactic to pave the way for another Muslim-Muslim ticket.
The debate has sparked divergent views among Christian leaders and political analysts. Some argue that a Christian running mate would help address concerns about marginalization, while others believe that the current administration's performance has shown that a Muslim-Muslim ticket does not impair governance.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria has urged caution, advising Nigerians to carefully study the political developments before drawing conclusions.
The APC's decision on its 2027 presidential ticket remains uncertain, with some speculating that President Bola Tinubu may retain his current running mate, Kashim Shettima. Others believe that the party may opt for a Christian running mate to broaden its appeal.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the APC's decision on its 2027 presidential ticket will have significant implications for the country's political landscape.