Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has officially endorsed his immediate past Commissioner for Works, Mustapha Gubio, as his preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election. The move sets the stage for a potentially fierce internal struggle within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Governor’s spokesperson, Malam Dauda Iliya, confirmed the development on Tuesday, describing Gubio as the candidate best positioned to sustain and expand the administration’s development agenda.
“Gubio represents continuity. He understands the vision of this administration and possesses the capacity to build on its achievements,” Iliya said.
The endorsement followed a symbolic moment captured in a photograph shared by the Governor’s aide, showing Gubio presenting his expression of interest and nomination forms to Zulum.
In the image, Gubio is flanked by the Governor, the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and a group of loyalists—an appearance widely interpreted by stakeholders as a definitive public show of political backing.
However, the move is already stirring debate within Borno APC circles, with analysts warning it could deepen existing cracks within the party.
Political observers suggest the endorsement may not sit well with supporters of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who continues to wield significant influence over the state’s political structure.
“There are clear signs of parallel interests,” noted a Maiduguri-based political analyst. “Both Zulum and Shettima appear to have preferred camps, and that could complicate party unity ahead of the primaries.”
The situation has fueled speculation of a quiet power tussle between the two long-term allies, with insiders hinting at growing unease between their respective camps.
Gubio’s entry into the race adds to an expanding field of aspirants within the APC, raising the stakes as the party prepares for what is expected to be a highly competitive primary.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the definitive timetable for the 2027 general elections.
According to the commission, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
Party primaries, including the resolution of any arising disputes, are expected to take place between April 23 and May 30, 2026.
INEC also announced that official campaigning for the Presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while governorship and state assembly campaigns will commence on September 9, 2026.
