Ibrahim Masari withdraws as Tinubu’s ‘placeholder’ running mate

Ibrahim Masari has resigned as the vice-presidential nominee of Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Masari was in June selected as Tinubu’s running mate — but only in a placeholder capacity.

A substantive running mate for the 2023 presidential election is expected to be announced soon.

“This is to inform our esteemed party leaders under our able President Muhammadu Buhari, teeming party members and the great people of Nigeria, of the outcome of a crucial discussion I just had with the flag-bearer of our great party, All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Masari said in a statement on Sunday.

“Recall that I had the singular honour and privilege of being nominated as the running-mate to Asiwaju Tinubu last month after a keenly contested presidential primaries ahead of the 2023 general elections.

“But, after much reflection and wider consultations, I now wish to step down. I realized that my decision will enable Asiwaju 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.”

Meanwhile, the Tinubu Campaign Organisation has also confirmed the resignation of Masari as the running mate to Tinubu.

James Faleke, the interim national coordinator of the campaign organisation, issued the confirmation on Sunday.

“This is to inform and confirm that Alhaji Ibrahim Masari has stepped down as Vice Presidential nominee to the flag-bearer of APC in the 2023 presidential elections, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

“Alhaji Masari has communicated his decision to us from Saudi Arabia where he is presently performing the lesser hajj.

“While saluting Alhaji Masari’s sacrifice, we believe this will give Asiwaju Tinubu an opportunity to take a decision that will further enhance the chances of our great party in the 2023 elections.”