Shettima seeks forgiveness from Muslims for supporting Christian Senate President

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has apologised for asking lawmakers to elect a Christian Senate President for the 10th National Assembly.

Ahead of the election, Shettima had in calling for a Christian Senate President, said “Under the current dispensation, the worst incompetent Southern Christian is better than the most puritanical Northern Muslim for the Presidency of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The comments received wide spread condemnation within the Muslim community.

But speaking with BBC Hausa during the week, the Vice-President insisted his comments were misinterpreted and that he had no intention of defaming his religion.

The vice president suggested in the interview that he had come under threat from some elements in the country following his support for a Christian Senate President.

“The comment I made is for the benefit of Nigeria but was misinterpreted. I received confidential intelligence reports that are not suitable for public disclosure, Shettima said.

“I sincerely did not have any intention to cause harm to any individual or the Islamic religion. However, being an imperfect human being, I seek forgiveness from the community and from my Lord. I pledge that I will never reiterate such words again, as I am a devout Muslim, and my family lineage has faithfully followed the path of Islam for more than 1,400 years.

“To anyone who was hurt by my statement, I apologise, as it was never my intention to disparage any religion.”