Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Presidential flag bearer of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has given reasons he picked Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate.
Tinubu, in a statement Sunday, said Shettima had the needed pedigree and capacity to deliver electoral victory.
He also said that the spirit of 1993 is upon Nigerians again in 2023.
The statement made available to Ikengaonline read in part: “Senator Kashim 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.
“I am aware that many will continue to 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 embraced 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.”
