By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Babagana Umara Zulum has rejected calls to contest for a Senate seat in 2027. He made the announcement on Thursday in Maiduguri during the All Progressives Congress stakeholders’ meeting ahead of the House of Representatives primary election. Zulum said he chose party unity over personal ambition to preserve peace within the APC. He also urged aspirants to accept consensus arrangements in good faith to prevent internal divisions.
Zulum Rejects Pressure to Contest Senate Seat
The Borno governor revealed that supporters, friends, and family members pressured him to join the Senate race. However, he said maintaining unity within the APC remained his priority.
“Despite the overwhelming pressure from supporters and people close to me, I chose party unity and cohesion over my personal ambition,” Zulum said.
He added that his decision would help preserve cordial political relationships across the state.
Furthermore, Zulum encouraged party members to embrace dialogue and compromise ahead of the 2027 elections.
APC Leaders Back Consensus Arrangement
The APC stakeholders’ meeting focused on adopting consensus candidates for upcoming primaries. Party leaders argued that consensus would reduce disputes and strengthen internal unity.
Ali Bukar Dalori said the arrangement would help the party maintain stability across Borno and the Northeast.
“We don’t want to have problems in Borno, Northeast and the North,” Dalori stated.
He added that consensus would help the APC secure stronger electoral support than in the 2023 general election.
Meanwhile, Bello Ayuba confirmed that the party had largely adopted consensus as its preferred option.
Zulum Supports Primaries Where Needed
Although Zulum backed consensus, he stressed that the APC should allow democratic primaries in constituencies where aspirants reject the arrangement.
“As a democrat, I will not force any candidate on a particular constituency,” he said.
He urged aspirants and stakeholders to continue consultations to ensure peaceful agreements emerge.
In addition, Zulum called on politicians to place party stability above personal interests.
Party Leaders Praise Sacrifices of Aspirants
Party officials also commended lawmakers who decided not to seek re-election for the sake of unity.
Ayuba praised politicians including Abdullahi Askira, Mohammed Zakaria, Baba Mala Bukar Sunoma, and Mustapha Alone for their sacrifices.
Dalori equally applauded party leaders for showing sportsmanship during consultations.
“We must thank God and appreciate the sacrifices of our leaders,” he said.
