Convenor of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI), Yerima Shettima, has confirmed his intention to contest for the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat, describing reports of an “anointed candidate” within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as false and misleading.
Speaking to supporters in Kaduna today Friday, Shettima insisted he remains firmly in the race and urged party members not to be distracted by what he described as sponsored rumors aimed at creating confusion ahead of the party primaries.
He said, “I want to say clearly that I am fully in the race. There is no such thing as an anointed candidate. We need a level playing field where the will of the people can prevail.”
He expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State to provide level playing field for all candidates while stressing the need for transparency, fairness and adherence to democratic principles within the party.
The senatorial candidate called for the conduct of credible primaries that will allow party stakeholders to freely choose candidates based on qualifications and capacity to deliver effective representation.
“We must let democracy take its course. Let party members decide who represents them. This is the only way to strengthen confidence in our party,” he said.
Shettima cautioned the party leadership and stakeholders against actions that could undermine internal democracy or undermine public confidence in the APC, noting that the strength of the party lies in its ability to uphold the rule of law and the will of the people.
He said that although he is optimistic about the party's prospects in future elections, it is important that the correct procedures are followed to ensure unity and legitimacy.
On the issue of unanimous candidature, Shettima said any such system should be inclusive and include all candidates.
“If the party opts for consensus, it should be done through consultation and consent of all candidates, and not through imposition,” he said.
He also promised to abide by the results of the party primaries, provided the process is conducted in line with the party constitution and democratic norms.
He said, “My commitment is to the party. If due process is followed, I will abide by the outcome and continue to support the APC.”
Shettima, who stressed that his decision to join the race was motivated by his desire to provide quality representation to the people of Kaduna Central, urged his supporters to remain calm.
He also called for continued support for President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani while expressing confidence in the future of the party.