A top chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mallam Salihu Isa Nataro, gave the advice, saying Shettima no longer appears to have the full backing of President Bola Tinubu.
Nataro, a former governorship aspirant in Kebbi State, said the recent confusion in Gombe State over who should run with Tinubu in 2027 shows that the Vice President may have lost his place in the President’s inner circle.
He explained that if Shettima truly values the opportunity he was given in 2022, it would be proper for him to step aside.
He noted that the Vice President should notify the President and the APC leadership of his decision to leave office without bitterness.
According to him, such a move would support the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda and show loyalty to the party.
Nataro added that if Shettima writes a public letter announcing that he will not be available to run with Tinubu in the next election, but will instead work with people in the North-East to campaign for Tinubu, it would strengthen the President’s position and calm tensions in the party.
He further stated that stepping down could give Tinubu room to pick a new running mate from the southern region, which could improve Nigeria’s image abroad and change how the youth see the current administration.
Nataro, who is also known for pushing reforms in the public sector, said Shettima can take up the role of campaign coordinator for Tinubu’s re-election and still gain honour.
He recalled how Tinubu had surprised many party leaders by choosing Shettima in 2022 without wide consultations.
