APC Christian Chairman Rekindles Muslim-Muslim Ticket Debate

The emergence of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, a northern Christian from Plateau State, as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reignited debates surrounding the possibility of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in the 2027 elections.

Yilwatda’s appointment comes amid ongoing speculation over the party’s political strategy and religious representation. He replaces Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, a Muslim from Kano State, who recently stepped down, reportedly due to health issues.

Unveiled at an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Yilwatda previously served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. His selection is viewed by many political analysts as a calculated move by the APC in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

The APC previously faced widespread criticism in 2023 after President Tinubu, a southern Muslim, chose another Muslim, Kashim Shettima from the North, as his running mate. The ticket drew significant backlash, particularly from the Christian community, with accusations of marginalisation and fears of religious imbalance in governance.

Since then, the issue of religious representation on the APC ticket has remained a contentious topic. Earlier this year, the Arewa Youth Movement, a northern Muslim group, urged President Tinubu to choose a northern Christian as his running mate in 2027 to ensure religious inclusivity and national unity. In a similar vein, another group — the Concerned Northern Muslim Ummah — called on Muslim aspirants within the party to step aside in favour of a Christian candidate.