Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s president, has approved a power shift to the south in 2023.
The president stated this at a luncheon in Abuja with presidential hopefuls from the All Progressives Congress.
His decision comes just hours after APC governors in the north approved a power shift to the south in the national interest.
The governor of Jigawa State, Badaru Abubakar, has withdrawn from the presidential contest.
“APC governors and political leaders from the northern states of Nigeria today met to review the political situation and to further support our Party in providing progressive leadership amidst our national challenges,” read a statement released by the northern governors after their meeting on Saturday.
“We applauded President Muhammadu Buhari’s request to governors and other stakeholders to help the APC find a strong presidential candidate during our meeting.”
“Following much consideration, we have come to the strong conclusion that, after President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight years in government, the APC’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections should be one of our thronging members from Nigeria’s southern states.”
“For the APC, it is a matter of honor, a commitment that is unaffected by the decisions of another political party.”
“We affirm that adhering to this ideal is in the best interests of creating a stronger, more united, and more progressive country.”
“As a result, we strongly advise President Muhammadu Buhari that the hunt for a successor as the APC’s presidential candidate be limited to our southern compatriots.”
“In the national interest, we call to all contestants from northern states to withdraw and enable only aspirants from the south to advance to the primaries.”
“We are heartened by our esteemed colleague, Governor Abubakar Badaru’s choice to contribute to this patriotic cause by relinquishing his presidential ambitions.
“It is the APC’s responsibility to ensure that the 2023 elections serve as a time of nation-building, emphasizing that a democratic path to power exists for those who respect cooperation and want to establish national platforms.”
“At this time, the most rational and inclusive approach to choosing our party’s nominee is required, and we urge all APC leaders to uphold their responsibilities in this regard.”
