Vice-President Kashim Shettima has apologised to the Muslim community for his remarks concerning the election of the leaders of the 10th National Assembly.

“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,” Mr Shettima stated during a meeting with members ahead of the National Assembly election.

The remark provoked a heated controversy, particularly on social media.

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

He said, “The comment I made is for the benefit of Nigeria but was misinterpreted. I received 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 apologise, as it was never my intention to disparage any religion.”

Religious consideration became a top priority in the choosing of the leaders of the National Assembly in the aftermath of the controversy raised by the defiance of religious balancing by then APC presidential candidate Bola Tinubu to field Mr Shettima, a fellow Muslim, as running mate.