Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress’ presidential candidate, on Wednesday, July 20, formally introduced Kashim Shettima as his running mate. Shettima formerly served as governor of Borno State.
At the same time, Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State, made a commitment to work with his vice presidential candidate and his team to improve the nation.
Read Also: Shettima: APC Unveils Former Borno Gov As Vice Presidential Candidate
At the unveiling ceremony conducted at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center in Abuja, the APC flagbearer made the pledge. At the unveiling ceremony were APC leaders, including Abdullahi Adamu, the national chairman of the party.
He said;
We will change this country for the better.
Justifying his choice of Shettima despite opposition to the Muslim-Muslim ticket, Tinubu said he had considered principles that determine victory in politics with his choice of the former Borno governor.
All my life, my decision regarding the team around me and those I work with are guided by principles of competence, innovation, compassion, integrity, fairness and adherence to excellence.
In politics those principles are sacrosanct. They are not negotiable. Without them, there can be no victory or joy.
Tinubu Warns Against Religious Sentiments
The APC Presidential flagbearer further implored the citizenry to avoid religious and tribal sentiments, capable of inflaming the polity ahead of the 2023 general elections
Tinubu stressed;
This is where politics must end and leadership must begin. True leadership is not grounded in religious pandering, populism or sentiment. To forge ahead as a nation toward development and prosperity, we must, instead, break the shackles of old thinking.
This chapter in our nation’s history demands a bold yet pragmatic approach. In selecting Senator Shettima I have committed myself to this path. I have made the hard choice because I believe it is the best choice.
He added;
Much has been said, written about my decision to select Shettima to partner me on this journey. As a committed and progressive leader, I have read and listened to all that has been written and said. It has been an emotional situation for me.
Out of many competent Nigerians and out of many advice, I know it has to be my decision. And the hallmark of leadership is taking a decision at the right time when it ought to be taken.
I did consult and I am proud to see all of you here acknowledging the quality of our Vice President Kashim Shettima.
