Placeholder: Ibrahim Masari withdraws; Tinubu picks Shettima as substantive running mate
The presidential running mate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ibrahim Masari, has withdrawn from the 2023 presidential race.
Before his withdrawal, Masari was nominated as ‘placeholder’ running mate to Tinubu in order to allow the latter ample time to eventually nominate the right running mate for the 2023 presidential election.
Newsclickng.com had earlier reported that Tinubu during a consultative visit to President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State on Sunday told newsmen of his choice of immediate past governor of Borno State, Sen. Kashim Shettima as substantive running mate in place of Masari.
In a statement signed by Masari and issued from Saudi Arabia on Sunday, titled, ‘Resignation As APC Vice Presidential Nominee’, he said he was stepping down “after much reflection and wider consultations.”
“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 flag-bearer of our great party, All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Recall that I had the singular honour and privilege of being nominated as the running-mate to Asiwaju Tinubu last month after a keenly contested presidential primaries ahead of the 2023 general elections.
“But, after much reflection and wider consultations, I now wish to step down. I realized that my decision will enable Asiwaju 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 Ahmed 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,” Masari stated.
Meanwhile, the Tinubu Campaign Organization (TCO) has confirmed Masari’s withdrawal as running-mate to Asiwaju Tinubu.
A statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Interim National Coordinator of TCO, Hon. James Faleke, saluted Masari’s sacrifice, saying it believed will give Tinubu an opportunity to take a decision that will further enhance the chances of APC in the 2023 elections.
“This is to inform and confirm that Alhaji Ibrahim Masari has stepped down as Vice Presidential nominee to the flag-bearer of APC in the 2023 presidential elections, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Alhaji Masari has communicated his decision to us from Saudi Arabia where he is presently performing the lesser hajj.
“While saluting Alhaji Masari’s sacrifice, we believe this will give Asiwaju Tinubu an opportunity to take a decision that will further enhance the chances of our great party in the 2023 elections,” Faleke stated.
