Zulum supervises APC’s state assembly primaries in Mafa

Gov. Babagana of Borno Zulum on Wednesday, supervised the process leading to the emergence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for his hometown, Mafa State Constituency.

The process was conducted in Mafa Local Government Area, by the party’s Primary Election Committee, chaired by Chief Emma Eneukwu.

El-Lawan Yakub emerged as the consensus candidate after the incumbent lawmaker, Baba Modu, and another aspirant, Ahmadu Umara, voluntarily stepped down in his favour.

His emergence was thereafter affirmed through a voice vote by a large crowd of party supporters and residents, signalling overwhelming support for his candidature.

The Chairman of the Committee declared El-Lawan Yakub as the APC’s candidate for the state assembly constituency.

“El-Lawan Yakub is validly returned as the candidate for Mafa State Constituency in the 2027 general election,” Eneukwu declared.

Addressing party members and supporters at the end of the exercise, Zulum commended the three aspirants for their maturity, sacrifice, and commitment to party unity, which led to the successful adoption of a consensus candidate.

“I urge you to eschew bitterness and carry everyone along in your discharge of legislative duties and responsibilities and your services to your constituency,” Zulum advised.

The governor also called on politicians and residents of Mafa to avoid tribal divisions and work collectively for the development of the area.

“You should all not look at yourselves with any tribal lens, but as indigenes of Mafa for peace, progress and prosperity to blossom in Mafa,” he said.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after the process, Zulum expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the APC primaries across the state.

“Everything is going well, because I believe almost all of the 28 seats of the members of the House of Assembly will emerge based on consensus, and this is an indication that there is party cohesion and there is party unity,” Zulum said.

“The chairman and members of the team that are here for the primary election, as well as the appeal committees, are doing very well.

“We extend our profound appreciation to them, and we wish them well,” he added.

Also speaking, El-Lawan Yakub promised inclusive representation for the people of Mafa constituency at the Borno State House of Assembly if elected.

He expressed gratitude to the two aspirants who stepped down for him, the Primary Election Committee, and the governor for ensuring a transparent and fair process.

The governor was accompanied by the APC Deputy National Chairman North, Ali Dalori; member representing Chibok/Damboa/Gwoza Federal Constituency, Ahmed Jaha; Acting Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Babagana Malumbe and other party officials.

NAN