The Vice President of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima, has apologized to the Muslim community over the defamatory comment he made at the height of the political tussle for the leadership positions of the National Assembly.
In the buildup to Tuesday’s election of the 10th Assembly, during a meeting with a group of lawmakers from the North, the VP had 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 comment generated reactions and condemnation among the Muslim faithful.
However, in a recent interview with BBC Hausa, the former lawmaker said he made the comments in the best interest of Nigeria, being privy to some intelligence he cannot disclose to the public, while noting that he was misinterpreted and had no intentions to disparage the religion he professes.
“The comment I made was for the benefit of Nigeria but was misinterpreted. I receive confidential intelligence reports that are not suitable for public disclosure.
“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 apologize, as it was never my intention to disparage any religion.”
