Prince Tonye Princewill, ally of immediate past Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has condemned the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to field a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
The former governorship candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Rivers State also announced his resignation from the APC with immediate effect on Tuesday.
Princewell said he dumped the party following the decision of its presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu to pick a Muslim and former Governor of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate.
The former governorship candidate stated that he cannot defend the decision of his party in fielding a Muslim Muslim ticket for the 2023 presidential election.
Princewill opined that he cannot continue to argue for equity in Rivers state and defend inequity in the country despite protests from well-meaning Nigerians, across religious and political divides.
The letter reads: “While I appreciate my leader, Rt 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 for 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 right and they know wrong. And they know me. 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.
“I wish you well. And I remain grateful to our Leader, but I can not defend the indefensible. And to be totally honest, neither should you.”
