APC Primaries: Borno Senators Get Return Tickets

The three incumbent senators from Borno State – Ali Ndume (Borno South), Mohammed Monguno (Borno North), and Kala Shehu Lawan, SAN, (Borno Central) – have returned unopposed at the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary in Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

Ndume was affirmed as the party’s candidate following the withdrawal of his main challenger, Abdullahi Askira, while the Senate Chief whip, Mohammed Tahir Mungono and Kaka Shehu Lawan, where affirmed as sole candidates.

The affirmation exercises were conducted by the Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee for Borno State, Prophet Jones Ode Erue, and was attended by APC leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from their respective Senatorial Zone.

Ndume’s main challenger, Askira, said he stepped down after consultations with party stakeholders across the district.

Askira, the Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, said his decision was based on appeals from APC leaders and elders in the senatorial zone.

If victorious in the general election, Ndume would be returning to the National Assembly for a fifth term.

Speaking shortly after his affirmation, the former Senate Leader expressed gratitude to APC stakeholders, delegates, and party supporters in Borno South for their confidence in him.

He also commended Askira for withdrawing from the contest in the interest of party unity.

“I want to thank our elders in Borno South Senatorial District for their unwavering support. I will continue to promote their interests at all times,” Ndume said.

He described Askira’s decision to step down as exemplary loyalty to the party and praised him for heeding the appeals of party leaders.

Ndume further urged APC members and stakeholders in the district to remain united and continue working together as “one political family” ahead of the general elections. (Daily trust)