Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate, has reacted to Bola Tinubu’s choice of a fellow Muslim, Kashim Shettima, as his running mate ahead of the 2023 election.
In a statement, Atiku urged Nigerians to avoid ‘exclusionist politics,’ saying that the country had seen the worst of exclusionist politics and that the path ahead is one of inclusive and unifying politics.
He urged Nigerians not to let ‘primordial sentiment’ cloud politics, especially at this difficult time.
Part of the statement read, “Politics is meant to be a corrective mechanism.” So, even if we are angry about the inexcusable low that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has brought us in the last seven years, we must ensure that we insulate our politics from the corrosive effect of the ruling party’s failures.”
Atiku noted that a society cannot progress if its politics are divisive.
“Dear friend and compatriot, the journey we have agreed to embark on together will not be accomplished by treading the ignominious path of exclusionist politics.” This journey, our campaign, is a rescue mission for this nation, and it must involve all Nigerians.
“So, while our opponents may believe that there is an easy path to victory in divisive politics, we must convey to them that Nigeria has seen the worst shades of exclusionist politics, and the road ahead is the path of inclusive and unifying politics.” That is what we stand for,” he stated.
In contrast to the ruling party, Atiku stated that his party “are Unifiers and Bridge-builders” and represent the future of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
