By Becky Usman

Shettima has issued an apology for his recent comment regarding the religious background of potential candidates for the position of Senate President.

His statement, in which he allegedly stated that a southern Christian, regardless of competence, is preferable to a northern Muslim, sparked a wave of criticism and controversy.

According to reports, Shettima made these remarks while advocating for a Christian candidate from the south-south region to assume the role of Senate President.

Despite the All Progressives Congress (APC) nominating Godswill Akpabio for the position, Abdulaziz Yari, a Muslim senator representing Zamfara west, remained a contender until the final stages.

In response to the backlash, Olusola Abiola, Director of Information in the Vice President’s office, clarified that Shettima’s statement was taken out of context and twisted by mischief-makers.

Abiola emphasized that his principal’s intention was to promote a balanced representation in the Senate, even if it meant choosing a non-Muslim candidate over a more qualified Muslim candidate.

However, Abiola’s clarification did little to quell the ongoing debates sparked by Shettima’s remarks.

Speaking to BBC Hausa, the Vice President expressed that his comments were made in the best interest of Nigeria. He clarified that as the son of Muslim scholars, he had no intention of discrediting any religion in the country.

Acknowledging his fallibility as a human being, Shettima humbly apologized to the community and sought forgiveness from both the public and his God for any offense caused by his statement.