They contended that a Muslim-Muslim ticket, being canvassed by the party, would be counter-productive since it would further deepen the division among Nigerians along ethnic and religious lines.

The group, in a statement, co-signed by a Professor of Public Administration & Politics Prof. Kakuta Yaki, and former President of Political Science Association, Prof. Ibrahim Shuaibu, argued that their position was the product of an extensive research work by professors from diverse backgrounds in politics, history and international relations.

They agreed that among the array of qualified northern Christians considered, Pam stood out based on findings.

In a related development, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), yesterday, warned Nigerians that the plot by the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate to pick a Muslim as his running mate “is a final attempt to hand over Nigeria to terrorists.”

It said Muslim-Muslim ticket has reduced Kaduna State to a graveyard and the killing fields of Christians and moderate Muslims since in the last five years.

HURIWA in a statement, by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said those same terrorists were behind the groundswell of campaigns in the media using many fronts, including Christian loafers for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to pick another Muslim as his running mate.

HURIWA further stated that Islamists had penetrated many Northern states’ administrations

The rights group said the enthusiasm with which the likes of the Kano and Kaduna State governors were pushing the agenda of a Muslim-Muslim ticket, even when such an unconstitutional practice had led to the destruction of Kaduna State, meant that there was more to it than met the eyes.

“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.

“His credentials are intimidating. Rev Yakubu Pam is an unassuming personality, though silent. He has contributed immensely to religious stability in the Northern region. His name resonates peace and unity, even among the Northern religious circle, with whom he enjoys tremendous respect.”

“Pam’s choice as the APC vice-presidential candidate would come with its attendant benefits, as it would give a balanced ticket that would eventually guarantee electoral success at the polls.

“Pam is also a known figure in most parts of Northern Nigeria because of his numerous contributions to peace and development and religious tolerance. His appeal also cuts across all ages due to his broad views on issues”.

“While Tinubu will address the political component of the ticket, Pam will address the administrative component,” the scholars noted.

The professors, however, urged the party leadership to rise to the occasion in “ensuring that the Tinubu/Pam ticket in the overarching objective of presenting a formidable force capable of translating the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians into tangible reality”.