Some professors from the north have backed an All Progressives Congress (APC) joint ticket of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for President and the executive secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Rev Yakubu Pam as his running mate.
The scholars, under the aegis of Association of Northern Professors (ANP) made this known in a research paper made public at the weekend in Abuja.
Co-signed by Prof Kakuta Yaki, a Professor of Public Administration and Politics, and Prof Ibrahim Shuaibu, a former president of Political Science Association, they said the conclusion was the product of an extensive research work by Professors from diverse backgrounds in politics, history and international relations.
Considering that the country is polarised along ethnic and religious lines, the dons said it would be counter-productive for the party to still proceed with a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
Among the array of qualified northern Christians considered, the Association of Northern Professors said Rev Pam stands out based on its findings.
“Pam is a most suitable candidate for the APC because of his rich pedigree and numerous contributions to the entrenchment of peace and unity in the Northern region. He commands respect amongst the northern elites and clerics,” the academics said.
Adding further, they said, “His credentials are intimidating, Rev Yakubu Pam is an unassuming personality, though silent, and has contributed immensely to religious stability in the northern region.
His name resonates with peace and unity, even amongst the Northern religious circle, with which he enjoys tremendous respect.
“His leadership footprints cut across different segments and sectors of the Northern region, hence why his nomination as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC would indeed boost the chances of the party in the 2023 presidential elections. His candidacy addresses the religious and ethnic questions needed to position the APC for electoral success.
