Prince Tonye Princewill, an ally of former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, has condemned the All Progressives Congress (APC) decision to field a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
On Tuesday, the former governorship candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Rivers State announced his resignation from the APC with immediate effect.
According to reports, this development comes just days after some loyalists of the former minister began dumping the APC in Rivers.
Princewill announced his resignation in a letter to the Chairman of Ward 3 (Royal Ward), Buguma City, in the state’s Asari Toru Local Government Area.
Princewell stated that he left the party after its presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, chose a Muslim and former governor of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima, as his running mate.
The former governorship candidate stated that he cannot defend his party’s decision to field a Muslim Muslim ticket in the 2023 presidential election.
Despite protests from well-meaning Nigerians across religious and political divides, Princewill believes he cannot continue to argue for equity in Rivers state and defend inequity in the country.
“While I appreciate my leader, Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi, and all his efforts, I cannot defend my party’s decision to field a Muslim Muslim ticket, especially at this time, against all protests from well-meaning Nigerians across religious and political divides,” the letter says.
“It sets a very bad precedent, it is completely insensitive, and even if you win, it will be bad for good governance.” In these dire circumstances, I can no longer remain a member of a political party that prioritises electoral victory over the safety of lives and the peace of mind of its citizens.
“The men and women of our party here in Rivers are the most devoted and devoted supporters I have ever met.” They understand what is right and wrong. They also recognise me. I had a great time working with them and am sad to leave.
“However, an APC party that completely disregards the fundamentals of the same equity we preach is foreign to me.” Buhari resisted the same temptation and chose a little-known Osinbajo, and he won.
“I wish you the best.” And, while I am grateful to our Leader, I cannot defend the indefensible. To be honest, neither should you.”
