Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has issued a firm rebuttal against circulating rumours alleging he has handpicked individuals for executive roles in the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) congresses.
Governor Dismisses Claims as Mischief
In a statement released on Saturday, 17 January 2026, from the state capital, Maiduguri, the governor's Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, conveyed Zulum's strong denial. The governor labelled the allegations as the deliberate work of mischief-makers whose primary aim is to create disaffection and discord within the ranks of the APC in Borno State.
Zulum was unequivocal in his position, clarifying that he has not given any form of endorsement or anointment to candidates vying for party offices. This denial covers both the forthcoming national-level congresses and those scheduled to take place across the state's local government areas.
No Anointment in Gwoza or Any LGA
The governor addressed the rumours with specific clarity. "Let me categorically state that I have not anointed any person for the position of Chairman or Secretary of APC in Gwoza Council during the forthcoming party congress," Zulum declared.
He expanded this stance to encompass all local councils in the state. "I wish to also stress that I have not anointed any person for any position at the APC congress in any of the 27 LGAs," he added, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding his non-interference in the democratic process of the party.
Call for Unity and Constructive Engagement
Governor Zulum used the opportunity to call on all members and supporters of the APC in Borno to completely disregard the false information. He described the rumour as a calculated attempt to derail the party from its established path of promoting good governance and maintaining accountability to the people.
Instead, he urged stakeholders to channel their energies into positive and inclusive deliberations. The governor emphasised the need for constructive consultations aimed at presenting credible and competent candidates for all the party positions that will be contested in the state.
"This is a democratic process at work in the delivery of the enormous dividends of democracy at the state and council levels," Zulum concluded, reaffirming his commitment to allowing a fair and open process to unfold without undue influence from his office.
