Masari steps down as Tinubu running mate

Ibrahim Masari has stepped down as running mate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu in the next 2023 election.

Masari’s name was earlier submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC as placeholder while the party combed for a potential candidate in a bid to beat the June 17 deadline.

In a letter he addressed to members of the APC on Sunday, Masari announced his resignation.

“I had the singular honour and privilege of being nominated as the running mate to Asiwaju Tinubu last month after a keenly contested presidential primary ahead of the 2023 election,” he said in a letter which reads in parts.

After much reflection and wider consultations, I now wish to step down. I realised that my decision will enable Asiwaju to have more latitude to give more accommodation and inclusion that will position our party to win the coming elections, with the support of the people of Nigeria.”

Tinubu has reportedly picked Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate.