Tonye Princewill, an ally of Rotimi Amaechi, has resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the picking of a Muslim running mate by Bola Tinubu.
Tinubu, standard bearer of the ruling party, unveiled Kashim Shettima, former governor of Borno, as his running mate, on Sunday.
In his resignation letter to his ward chairman in Rivers state, the politician said he would not be able to defend the Muslim-Muslim ticket opted for by the party.
He said there is no justification to remain in the party.
“I can’t argue for equity in my state and defend inequity in my country,” Princewill said.
“While I appreciate my leader, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi and all his efforts, I cannot defend the decision of my party, in fielding a Muslim-Muslim ticket, especially at a time like this, against all protestations from well-meaning Nigerians, across religious and political divides.
“It sets a very wrong precedent, it is totally insensitive and even if you win, will prove bad to good governance. Under these dire circumstances, I find no justification to still remain, in good conscience, a member of a political party that subordinates electoral victory over the safety of lives and the peace of mind of its citizens.
“The men and women of our party here in Rivers are the most loyal and faithful supporters I have met. They know what is right and wrong.
“I enjoyed working with them and I’m so sad to leave. But an APC party that totally disregards the basics of the same equity we preach, is alien to me.
“Buhari resisted the same temptation and chose a little-known Osinbajo and won. By doing this, Tinubu is saying that a northern Christian has no electoral value. My staying means I agree.
“I wish you well. And I remain grateful to our leader (Amaechi), but I cannot defend the indefensible, to be totally honest, neither should you.”
David Bwala, member of the ruling party and legal aide to Ovie Omo-Agege, deputy senate president, resigned from party over the same reason.
