Strong indication has emerged that Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the 2023 general election, has zeroed in on picking Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate.
It was learnt that the vice presidential candidate would be presented to President Muhammadu Buhari, the leader of the party in his country home, Daura, Katsina State today (Sunday).
It would be recalled that Shettima, representing Borno Central Senatorial District and former governor of Borno State, played a lead role in Tinubu’s pre-presidential primary campaign.
Meanwhile, Ibrahim Masari, who stood in as the running mate to the APC presidential candidate, has announced his resignation from the position in a letter addressed to members of the APC on Sunday.
“This is to inform our esteemed party leaders under our able President, Muhammadu Buhari, teeming party members and the great people of Nigeria, of the outcome of a crucial discussion I just had with the flagbearer of our great party, the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I had the singular honour and privilege of being nominated as the running mate to Asiwaju Tinubu last month after a keenly contested presidential primary ahead of the 2023 general election.
“But, after much reflection and wider consultations, I now wish to step down. I realised that my decision will enable Asiwaju to have more latitude to give more accommodation and inclusion that will position our party to win the coming elections with the support of the people of Nigeria.
“In stepping down, I believe I can still serve our party and the country in several other capacities. I wish to confirm that I have submitted my withdrawal letter and affidavit to that effect as the vice-presidential candidate to Asiwaju Bola TInubu in the coming elections.
“On behalf of myself and family, I wish to sincerely thank Asiwaju Tinubu – the incoming President, Insha Allah – for his trust in me and we promise to remain steadfast in our support for him and the party.”
