A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Ibrahim Masari, has resigned his selection as the running mate of APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

Tinubu had chosen Masari as the APC’s “placeholder” vice-presidential candidate for the 2023 general election.

However, the APC chieftain, in a statement he personally issued on Sunday, said he was stepping down “after much reflection and wider consultations”.

The statement titled, ‘Resignation As APC Vice Presidential Nominee’, read: “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.

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“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.

The latest development comes a few hours after Tinubu announced a former governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima, as his running mate for the 2023 presidential election.

The Star