As the presidential candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has denied allegations that President Muhammadu Buhari forced him to choose Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the upcoming election.
Speaking at the party's final campaign rally in Lagos, Tinubu said that the President left the decision of choosing a running mate to him, as he was experienced and better positioned to select someone who would help him run the country effectively.
According to Tinubu, President Buhari had told him, "You know better, you are very experienced and you know the kind of person who will assist you to run the country, so pick that person." Tinubu said he chose Senator Kashim Shettima because of his intelligence and determination, adding that he was a dependable and brave man.
Tinubu emphasized that he was not selected as a result of his tribe or religion and that he was accepted by President Buhari and the party's delegates, who celebrated with him after he was picked overwhelmingly.
At the rally, Tinubu reiterated his commitment to working hard for the country's development, just like President Muhammadu Buhari.
He applauded the President for staying neutral since the party's primaries and urged whoever comes after him to be qualified and work hard.
During the event, President Buhari gave his final support and endorsement to Tinubu, raising his hand and saying, "God willing, Tinubu will be the next president of this country."
The rally had a record-breaking turnout, with people gathering outside of the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere as early as 8 a.m., and lining the streets from the presidential wing of Murtala Muhammed Airport in Ikeja, where the President and Tinubu's planes landed until they arrived in Surulere in a long motorcade.
Tinubu also urged Nigerians to show true sportsmanship and patriotism during the upcoming election by voting for their favourite candidates without resorting to violence.
He warned young people not to allow themselves to be used as agents of destruction and violence, but rather to be critical partners in the nation-building process by electing leaders of their choice who they can hold accountable and trust to defend their future and guarantee unity, peace, and prosperity in the country.
Tinubu told the crowd, “As you worked hard for me, I will work hard for Nigeria. All the plans set out in our action plan for renewed hope for Nigerians will be pursued rigorously.
“Thank you, Mr President, you gave me the courage, the confidence and the will to pick right,” he said.