Sources cited by the Nigerian Tribune claimed that tensions briefly arose during the submission of Tinubu’s Expression of Interest and nomination forms for the All Progressives Congress (APC), which were reportedly handled through the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Senator Hope Uzodinma.

According to the sources, Uzodinma had taken the forms to Vice President Kashim Shettima, and both men later proceeded to the APC national secretariat for the formal submission.

Investigations suggest that some officials at the Presidential Villa were uncomfortable with Shettima’s visible role in the process, fearing it created the impression that his position for the 2027 ticket had already been settled, even while consultations were still ongoing.

The development reportedly prompted internal scrutiny of Uzodinma, with some Villa operatives said to have “tested his loyalty” following the incident.

Although there were also claims that Uzodinma attempted to involve Senate President Godswill Akpabio in the submission process, a source said Akpabio declined, citing prior legislative commitments.

The situation allegedly triggered moves by some members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum to challenge Uzodinma’s leadership, but the attempt was said to have been halted following intervention from President Tinubu.

Sources added that the presidency did not push for his outright removal but sought to manage the tension within the forum.

There were also indications that concerns extended beyond the form submission episode, with discussions reportedly touching on internal coordination within the PGF.

According to insiders, the controversy stemmed largely from the perception created by Shettima’s involvement, which some believed prematurely signaled a settled decision on the vice-presidential ticket.

However, other sources argued that Uzodinma’s actions may have been misinterpreted, and that he was not acting with any political intent to influence outcomes.

It was further gathered that the PGF chairman’s role was eventually described as an “administrative error,” which helped ease tensions and prevent further escalation.

Meanwhile, although consultations on the 2027 ticket are still ongoing, sources say President Tinubu is expected to make a final decision on his running mate soon.

The report also noted that the political tension within APC circles has begun to ease, with ripple effects also felt in related party dynamics involving other political stakeholders.

reports that Chiefpriest contested the APC ticket for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency of Imo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He, however, lost to the incumbent lawmaker representing the constituency, Canice Nwachukwu, after polling 14 votes in the primary.

Reacting to the outcome, Seyi Tinubu shared an encouraging note to the nightlife promoter via his Instagram page on Sunday, which was later reposted by Chiefpriest.

“Bro, sometimes by losing a battle, you find a new way to win the war. Keep your head up @cubana_chiefpriest. We know what you are capable of achieving,” Seyi wrote.

The APC aspirant had earlier reacted in a circulating video, saying he had no regrets about contesting.

“I’m a hustler, and I didn’t regret trying to contest for a position. My only regret was trusting the elders in the community.

“I know how much I gave them, but only 14 people voted for me in the primary,” he said.