Zulum Backs Mustapha Gubio for 2027 Governorship Race
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has endorsed his former Commissioner for Works, Mustapha Gubio, as his preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor’s spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, confirmed the endorsement, describing Gubio as a candidate capable of sustaining and expanding the current administration’s development policies.
According to Iliya, Gubio understands the vision of the Zulum administration and possesses the experience needed to continue its projects and reforms.
The endorsement became public after photographs emerged showing Gubio presenting his expression of interest and nomination forms to Governor Zulum. Also present were Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno and several supporters, a move widely seen as a strong political signal ahead of the APC primaries.
However, the development has reportedly sparked discussions within APC circles in Borno, with observers suggesting it could intensify internal divisions within the party.
Analysts believe the endorsement may create tension among supporters of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who remains a major political figure in the state and is also believed to have loyal camps within the APC structure.
Political commentators say the growing competition among different interests within the party could shape what may become a highly contested primary election ahead of the 2027 polls.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are expected to hold on February 6, 2027. Party primaries are slated for April to May 2026.
