Why I picked Shettima despite him being Muslim — Tinubu

Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Bola Tinubu has said he picked Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate because the latter possesses one of the best credentials for the election.

Tinubu announced Shettima as his running mate in a letter personally signed on Sunday in Daura, Katsina State when he paid Sallah homage on President Muhammadu Buhari.

“As a man with the talent, maturity, strength of character, and patriotism, he (Shettima) has my implicit confidence and faith,” Tinubu said.

“I am aware that many will continue focus on a particular detail, the question of his faith.

“If we truly understood the challenges upon us a country, we must also see the imperative of placing competence in governance above religious sentiments.”

Tinubu and Shettima are both Muslims, raising concerns among Christians.

“In 1993, Nigerians embrace Chief MKO Abiola and a fellow Muslim running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe in one of the country’s fairest elections ever held,” Tinubu added.

“The spirit of 1993 is upon us again in 2023.”

The former Lagos State governor said that the choice of Shettima would further brighten the chances of the APC at the poll.

“The choice of my vice-presidential running mate has remained an open and burning question which gave rise to much speculation and debate.

“What I am, however, is a democrat, 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,” he said.