Author: Phlippages
The Presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Ahmed Bola Tinubu has picked Senator Kashim Shittima as his running mate for the upcoming general elections.
He made the announcement in Daura, Katsina State while on a visit to President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday, June 10.
The idea of a Muslim/Muslim ticket has been one many Nigerians as well as different bodies has kicked against. Many has argued that such a decision is not the best for a country that consists of both Christians and Muslims.
Despite the outrage, Tnubu has gone ahead to choose Senator Shetima as his running mate.
Shortly before the announcement of Mr Shettima, Ibrahim Masari, who served as a ‘placeholder’ for the VP slot, announced that he was withdrawing from the position in a letter addressed to APC members.
It read:
“This is to inform our esteemed party leaders under our able President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), teeming party members and the great people of Nigeria, of the outcome of a crucial discussion I just had with the flagbearer of our great party, the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I had the singular honour and privilege of being nominated as the running mate to Asiwaju Tinubu last month after a keenly contested presidential primary ahead of the 2023 general election.
But, after much reflection and wider consultations, I now wish to step down. I realised that my decision will enable Asiwaju to have more latitude to give more accommodation and inclusion that will position our party to win the coming elections, with the support of the people of Nigeria.
“In stepping down, I believe I can still serve our party and the country in several other capacities.
“I wish to confirm that I have submitted my withdrawal letter and affidavit to that effect as the vice-presidential candidate to Asiwaju Bola TInubu in the coming elections.
“On behalf of myself and family, I wish to sincerely thank Asiwaju Tinubu — the incoming President, Insha Allah — for his trust in me and we promise to remain steadfast in our support for him and the party.”
The campaign organisation of Mr Tinubu also confirmed the withdrawal of Mr Masari, in statement by James Faleke.
“This is to inform and confirm that Alhaji Ibrahim Masari has stepped down as Vice Presidential nominee to the flag-bearer of APC in the 2023 presidential elections, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Alhaji Masari has communicated his decision to us from Saudi Arabia where he is presently performing the hajj.
“While saluting Alhaji Masari’s sacrifice, we believe this will give Asiwaju Tinubu an opportunity to take a decision that will further enhance the chances of our great party in the 2023 elections.
