NASS Leadership: Shettima apologizes to Muslims over comment

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has apologized to Muslims in the country over his comment which sparked controversy before the 10th national assembly election.

Before the national assembly election was held, Shettima had canvassed for a Christian senate leader, stating that it is not right that Muslims fill up top political positions in the country.

He was also quoted saying that the most incompetent Southern Christian is better than the most puritanical Northern Muslim for the Presidency of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Vice President said;

“Under the current dispensation, the worst incompetent Southern Christian is better than the most puritanical Northern Muslim for the Presidency of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Following the controversy that trailed his comment, Vice President Kashim Shettima has now apologized to Muslims, claiming that he was misunderstood.

Speaking in an interview on BBC Hausa, Shettima said he made the comments in the best interest of Nigeria, being privy to some intelligence he cannot disclose to the public.

Shettima said;

“The comment I made is for the benefit of Nigeria but was misinterpreted. I received confidential intelligence reports that are not suitable for public disclosure.

“I sincerely did not have any intention to cause harm to any individual or the Islamic religion. However, being an imperfect human being, I seek forgiveness from the community and from my Lord. I pledge that I will never reiterate such words again, as I am a devout Muslim, and my family lineage has faithfully followed the path of Islam for more than 1,400 years.

“To anyone who was hurt by my statement, I apologise, as it was never my intention to disparage any religion.”

The national assembly elections have been concluded. Godswill Akpabio, a Christian from Akwa-Ibom North-West, has since been elected as Senate President.

Tajudeen Abbas, a Muslim from Kaduna state emerged as Speaker of the House of Representatives.