2027: APC Stakeholders Back Askira For Borno South Senatorial Seat

Stakeholders in the Borno State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have endorsed the deputy speaker of the State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Musa Askira, for the senatorial race.

They said the growing support for Askira reflects mounting calls for equity and power rotation ahead of the 2027 elections in southern Borno.

The endorsement sets up a potential contest with Mohammed Ali Ndume, a veteran lawmaker and one of the longest-serving members of the National Assembly who has represented the district for multiple terms.

Sule Gambo said stakeholders endorsed Abdullahi Askira after consultations across nine local government areas, citing growing calls for power rotation and inclusive representation ahead of 2027.

He said the demand for change was based on historical precedent, noting Askira/Uba leaders once backed zoning the seat to Gwoza “to give them a sense of belonging.”

Gambo said the rotation principle had been ignored after the tenure of Mohammed Mahdi, adding the seat “is supposed to rotate among Chibok, Damboa, Gwoza, and Askira/Uba,” but “this has not been the case for a long time.”

He said, “The time has come for Askira/Uba,” urging party members to support Askira to restore equity and balance.

Tafu Malla said Askira’s grassroots interventions in jobs, agriculture and empowerment have earned public support, adding, “he maintains a genuine open-door policy and is always there for the poor.”

Hawa Mai-Musa said, “It is time for a rotation” to ensure fairness to Chibok and Askira/Uba, describing Askira as “a proven leader.”

She said women account for “at least 70 per cent” of votes in Borno and expressed confidence that “if we stand with him, he will surely succeed.”

Adamu Jafiya said the district needs representation that attracts federal projects, adding, “We need Engr. Askira to bring his professional and legislative experience to the Senate.”

Stakeholders said Askira’s advocacy for the proposed Savannah State has strengthened his appeal and could help advance the process at the National Assembly.

They said that, despite Mohammed Ali Ndume’s influence, the endorsement signals a coordinated push to reshape Borno South politics ahead of 2027.