Borno APC Crisis Deepens as Babagana Umara Zulum Rejects Kashim Shettima-Backed Aspirant, Endorses Gubio for 2027
Governor Backs Former Works Commissioner as Preferred Successor, Sparks Party Tensions
By Rimawaglobalnews Correspondent In Maiduguri
Fresh cracks have emerged within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State following reports that Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has rejected a candidate believed to be backed by Vice President Kashim Shettima, opting instead to endorse his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
The governor has thrown his weight behind Mustapha Gubio, his immediate past Commissioner for Works, describing him as the most suitable candidate to sustain and expand the administration’s developmental strides across the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Zulum’s spokesperson, Malam Dauda Iliya, confirmed the endorsement, noting that Gubio possesses the experience, loyalty, and capacity required to consolidate ongoing infrastructure and reconstruction efforts, particularly in communities affected by insurgency.
The development, however, is already generating tension within the APC ranks in the state, as it is widely believed that the Vice President has interests in the emergence of a different candidate, setting the stage for a potential intra-party contest that could test the cohesion of the ruling party in Borno.
Political observers say the situation may lead to a fierce primary battle, especially if party stakeholders fail to reach a consensus ahead of the nomination process.
As the 2027 election cycle gradually gathers momentum, the unfolding dynamics in Borno highlight the growing struggle for control and succession within key political strongholds of the APC.
