A political advocacy group based in Abuja has warned against what it described as calculated attempts to drive a wedge between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, as the 2027 general elections approach.

The Northern Vanguard issued the warning on Thursday in a statement signed by its president, Edward Gulak. According to the group, certain political interests are working to destabilise the Tinubu-Shettima administration by manufacturing division between the two leaders.

Gulak said recent efforts by unnamed detractors to exploit perceived differences within the presidency were both “mischievous and unpatriotic,” insisting that the relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remains cordial and productive.

“We are aware that some political merchants, driven by envy and personal bitterness, are hoping to manufacture a rift between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in order to destabilise this administration ahead of 2027,” Gulak alleged.

He further claimed that such elements are disappointed that the presidency has remained “united and focused,” unlike previous administrations where principal and deputy were at odds. Drawing a contrast, Gulak suggested that the working relationship between Tinubu and Shettima represents “uncommon loyalty and shared vision.”

According to the Northern Vanguard, Senator Shettima has justified his selection as running mate during the 2023 election by “subordinating personal ambition to national interest” and focusing on governance.

“Shettima is not just a former governor with experience; he is an intellectual force, a patriot, and one of the few leaders who fully understands the complexities of Nigeria’s security, economy, and regional dynamics,” the statement added.

The group dismissed what it called “palace gossip” around the presidency, stating that Nigerians are more concerned with effective leadership than rumours of infighting. It argued that any attempt to create division between the president and vice president would ultimately harm the nation’s stability.

“Nigerians are not interested in conspiracy theories or factional drama. They want leadership that works, that listens, and that delivers. Any attempt to disrupt the working relationship between Tinubu and Shettima is a direct attempt to destabilise the country,” the statement read.

The Northern Vanguard also called on the media to exercise caution, urging journalists and commentators to avoid giving oxygen to what it described as “agenda-driven speculations.”

As Nigeria edges closer to the next election cycle, the group appealed to political stakeholders to focus on national unity and development rather than seeking political advantage through division.

“This administration needs focus, not friction,” Gulak concluded. “Those who seek to sow discord must remember that history will judge them harshly.”