The Presidential Candidate of Nigeria’s governing party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr. Bola Tinubu has announced a former Governor of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate for 2023 Presidential Election in the country.
This is contained a press statement signed by Mr. Tinubu and released to journalists.
Mr. Tinubu said he selected Senator Shettima because he believes Senator Shettima’s qualifications and experience makes him the best choice.
“Senator Kasim Shettima’s career in politics and beyond shows that he is eminently qualified not only to deliver that all important electoral victory, but, also, step into the shoes of the Vice President. As a man with the talent, maturity, strength of character, and patriotism he has my implicit confidence and faith” Tinubu said.
Addressing the various calls for by prominent politicians and groups for Mr. Tinubu to select a Christian as his running mate rather than fly a Muslim-Muslim ticket, the APC Presidential candidate advised Nigerians to rather focus on getting competent leaders.
“I am aware that many will continue focus on a particular detail, the question of his faith.
However, if we truly understand the challenges upon us a nation, then we must also see the imperative of placing competence in governance above religious sentiment.
“In 1993, Nigerians embrace Chief MKO Abiola and a fellow Muslim running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe in one of our fairest elections ever held.
The spirit of 1993 is upon us again in 2023.
As such, the ticket we present today represents a milestone in our political history. It symbolizes our party’s determination to be a leading light among political parties in Africa.
“The democratic process and the decorum that characterised our presidential primaries and the selection of our vice presidential candidate exemplifies why we are the party of the people and of the betterment of their future. With this selection the All Progressives Congress surely shall continue to be the party that shows the way and carries this nation towards its best future. I implore you all to join with me on this journey to a brighter future” Tinubu said.
The APC Presidential flagbearer further explained that his choice of running mate was a result of wide consultations.
“And a democrat must listen to, and consult with, the people and his advisors so that he may reform and govern wisely and on their behalf. This I have done. My political career was not built on blind indifference to the views of others. I appreciate the perspectives of leading members of the party, political allies and key national figures who see Nigeria’s future as I do. They gave me their views so that I might add their valuable insights to mine to reach the best decision possible and do so in a manner that strengthens the institutional fabric of our party as well as accelerating the evolution of our political democracy” he said.
N.O
