Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has clarified that his recent support for his former Commissioner for Works and Housing, Mustapha Gubio, should be understood as an “anointing” rather than a formal endorsement.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his media aide, Dauda Illiya, the governor explained that his action followed established political traditions and was not intended to impose a candidate on the democratic process.
The statement, titled “Zulum anoints, not endorses Gubio as his successor,” noted that it is customary for leaders to receive and offer goodwill to aspirants seeking elective positions.
“It’s a usual thing for responsible leaders to welcome contesting candidates so they can pray for their success in the democratic process,” the statement read.
Zulum further emphasized his role as the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, stating that he has extended the same gesture to other aspirants across various positions.
Among those received were Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, who is seeking the Borno North Senatorial seat, and Hon. Bukar Talba, representing Monguno/Nganzai/Marte Federal Constituency, alongside other contenders who have submitted their nomination forms.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to democratic values, describing himself as an inclusive leader who supports a fair and open political process. He also disclosed that a follow-up meeting with party stakeholders, scheduled after the April 25 gathering at the Government House, would formally address the presentation of party candidates.
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