A coalition of political groups in Northern Nigeria has endorsed Vice President Yemi Osibanjo as the preferred choice for the 2023 presidential election.
The coalition made their position known through a communiqué issued at a one-day joint conference on northern political participation and power shift with the theme ‘Northern Agenda: Our Real Solution’ at Arewa House in Kaduna State.
The communiqué was signed by Engr. Daniel Shawulu for Arewa Consensus Assembly, Suleman Makama, National Partnership campaign project, Khalid Mohammed Joint Participation for Development Initiative.
The group stated that after critical discussions and deliberations on political issues bordering on grass-roots political participation, Arewa/northern interest, larger interest, unity and peace of Nigeria, power rotation and the forthcoming general election, the conference came up with the following outcome;
“The Joint conference observed critically the present security challenges in Northern Nigeria, condemned it in totality and appealed to the general public to partner with Government in bringing an end to the incessant mayhem.
“The Joint Conference further observed that the insecurity while dominant in the north is a national problem that must be urgently addressed using broader strategies in support of the military and other law enforcement interventions.
“The real interest of the North is about the vast majority of people in the North, not the parochial interest of a few who are usually more vocal, and claim to speak on behalf of the “North”. The true desire of the North is a better Nigeria for all where there is hope and fulfillment.
“The North recognizes that there is an urgent responsibility to build and foster confidence between the different ethnicities and geo-political zones of Nigeria, as well as mitigate religious differences and insecurities between the people of Nigeria.
“The Joint Conference admits that the most acceptable next President of Nigeria will have an appeal that crosses ethnic, religious and other demographic lines, especially the youth considering the most recent history and trajectory of Nigeria.
“Such a person must have a demonstrated record of service at a national level and a history of believing in the unity of Nigeria. Integrity and a proven record of modesty, energy, experience and conduct that exemplifies and inspired confidence across demographics and across the entire country are not negotiable.
“In addition to the qualities, the Joint Conference strongly believes that ability to engage internationally, strong health, energy, mobility and versatility are vital attributes to lead Nigeria to a truly shared prosperity for all.
“Although the Joint Conference made its above deliberations, considerations and resolutions in the broader interest of the North, and not partisan or specific candidacy, the Joint Conference notes that the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osibanjo SAN, GCON fits and addresses the questions of balance, qualities and attributes expressed and resolved by the Joint Conference.