Asiwaju Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, has explained why he chose Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate, Charmingpro reports.
Tinubu said in a statement signed by him on Sunday that while he is concerned about a Muslim-Muslim ticket, he made his decision because he believes Shettima, a fellow Muslim, will bring the best governance to all Nigerians regardless of religion, ethnicity, or region.
Senator Shettima’s political career, according to the APC candidate, demonstrates that he is eminently qualified not only to deliver that crucial electoral victory, but also to fill the role of Vice President.
Tinubu referred to 1993, when Nigerians embraced Chief MKO Abiola and a fellow Muslim running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe, and urged them to place competence in governance above religious sentiment.
“I’m mindful of the energizing debate regarding my running mate’s possible religion,” said part of the statement.
“Today, I announce my choice with pride because it is not based on religion or to please one community over another.” I made this decision because I believe this is the man who can help me bring the best governance to all Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation, ethnicity, or region.
“To those who will be disappointed by my religiously motivated choice.” I will not and cannot ignore our people’s religious and ethnic concerns. Considering them is an important part of good and capable governance, but religion, ethnicity, and region cannot always and completely determine our path.
“In order to move forward as a nation toward development and prosperity, we must break free from old shackles.” We must rebalance our political calculations so that competence and fairness take precedence over reductive demographics.
“This is why, today, I announce Senator Kashim Shettima as my partner and running mate in the mission to advance and reclaim this great country’s fortunes and the hopes of its people.”