Vice-President Kashim Shettima has expressed regret for his previous remarks in which he called for the election of a Christian Senate President during the 10th National Assembly.

Shettima acknowledged the controversy and outrage caused by his comments, particularly on social media and within the Muslim community.

However, in an interview with BBC Hausa, he clarified that his words were misinterpreted and that he had no intention of defaming his religion.

Shettima explained that his statement was based on confidential intelligence reports that were not meant for public disclosure.

He apologized to the community and sought forgiveness from both the people and his Lord, emphasizing his devotion to Islam and the longstanding Islamic heritage of his family.

In the subsequent Senate election, Godswill Akpabio, a Christian from Akwa-Ibom North-West, was elected as the Senate President.