Vice-President Kashim Shettima, has issued an apology to the Muslim community over his remarks ahead of the election of the principal officers of the 10th Assembly.

i-News Nigeria reported that Shettima came under fire after he reportedly 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 remark provoked a heated controversy, particularly on social media.

However, in an interview with BBC Hausa, Shettima stated that his comments were misinterpreted and that he had no intention of defaming his religion, Islam.

The Nigerian vice president, who is a devout Muslim, promised not to say anything close to what triggered the controversy as he pleaded for forgiveness.

He added that his family lineage has faithfully followed the path of Islam for more than 1,400 years .

He said, “The comment I made is 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.”