Vice-President Kashim Shettima issues an apology for his request to appoint a Christian Senate President for the 10th National Assembly.

Ahead of the election, Shettima 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.” 

His comments sparked a wave of controversy and outrage, particularly on social media platforms and within the Muslim community. However, during an interview with BBC Hausa, Shettima maintained that his remarks had been misconstrued and that he had no intention of disparaging his faith. 

He 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.”

Following his election, Godswill Akpabio, a Christian hailing from Akwa-Ibom North-West, now assumes the position of Senate President.