The choice of running mate by the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to pick a Muslim-Muslim ticket for the 2023 presidential elections has attracted an outrage amongst Nigerians leading to the resignation of some key members from the party.
Recall that the APC presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, after meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday in Daura, Katsina State, announced the choice of former Borno State Governor, Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate.
The announcement effectively confirmed the decision by the ruling party to field a Muslim-Muslim ticket for the 2023 presidential race despite a good section of Nigerians rejecting the idea.
Below is a list of key members of the ruling party who immediately tendered their resignation following the development.
Senator Ishaku Abbo
The lawmaker representing Adamawa north senatorial district, Ishaku Abbo, who described Bola Tinubu’s decision to pick a Muslim as his running mate as irresponsible, resigned his membership in a Tinubu Support group
The lawmaker confirmed his stand in a chat with the Peoples Gazette on Monday.
Abbo said, “For Tinubu now to be given the ticket and turn around to do what he couldn’t achieve in 2015 despite opposition from Catholics and other Christian leaders is extremely irresponsible.”
He further stated, “Buhari fought a civil war and understands the consequences of a divided nation. When Tinubu wanted to be VP in 2015, Buhari said no because he understood the importance of unity.”
Actor Kenneth Okonkwo
Nollywood actor Kenneth Okonkwo also resigned his membership of All Progressive congress following Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s decision to pick a Muslim as his running mate.
Kenneth on Monday condemned the APC National leader’s decision while asking God to deliver the country from the hands of power grabbers who elevate the quest for power above the pursuit of purpose.
Daniel Bwala
Bwala, in a post on his Twitter account on Sunday, noted that he is dumping the ruling party on principles and convictions that he holds so dear.
He further stated that at this point, what Nigeria needs is for us to work towards uniting the country.
The APC chieftain wrote, “Tonight I officially resigned my membership of @OfficialAPCNg on principles and conviction that I hold so dear. At this time of our national existence, our efforts and energy should gravitate towards uniting our people.”
