Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has said the decision on who will emerge as the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 election lies solely with the party’s governorship candidate, Mustapha Gubio.
Speaking during a visit to the palace of the Emir of Biu in Biu Local Government Area, Zulum revealed that Gubio is expected to unveil his running mate next week.
The governor disclosed that no fewer than 27 aspirants are seeking to become the APC’s deputy governorship candidate.
While noting that he and other party leaders would provide guidance during the selection process, Zulum stressed that the governorship candidate has the final say on the choice of a running mate.
He said the decision should be based on merit, fairness and the best interests of Borno State, rather than ethnic, regional or sectional considerations.
Zulum also appealed to residents to pray for a smooth and peaceful selection process that would produce a capable deputy governorship candidate.
Reflecting on his own experience, the governor recalled that although former Governor Kashim Shettima offered him advice when he was choosing his running mate, the ultimate decision was his, insisting that no one imposed a candidate on him.
The race for the 2027 governorship election in Borno State has gathered momentum following the emergence of Mustapha Gubio as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate. Attention has since shifted to the selection of a deputy governorship candidate, with dozens of party members reportedly expressing interest in the position.
Amid growing speculation over possible political interference in the process, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has insisted that the choice of a running mate belongs exclusively to the party’s governorship candidate.
Zulum explained that while he and other APC stakeholders would offer advice, the final decision would not be imposed by party leaders. He also recalled that when he selected his own deputy, former Governor Kashim Shettima provided guidance but allowed him to make the final choice, which he said serves as the model for the current selection process.
