Borno South: Ndume Poised To Return To Senate As Hon Askira Withdraws From Race

The path appears clear for Senator Ali Ndume to return to the Senate after his principal rival for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket, Honourable Abdullahi Musa Askira, formally withdrew from the contest.

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Hon. Askira’s decision was conveyed in a statement issued by his aide, Bilyaminu Umar Ngulde, and made available to journalists in Abuja.

Hon. Askira said his withdrawal followed numerous appeals from APC stakeholders in Borno South.

The statement reads in part: “I write to respectfully notify you that, after extensive consultations, our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has decided to award Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume the party’s ticket for the forthcoming 2027 general election.

“Following these wide-ranging consultations, the party called upon Honourable Abdullahi Musa Askira and requested him to step down in favour of the incumbent Senator, Ali Ndume. In the spirit of party loyalty and collective progress, Honourable Abdullahi Musa Askira has graciously complied.

“He hereby calls on all his supporters across Askira‑Uba and the entire Southern Senatorial District to lend their full support to Senator Ndume. He also appeals for peace, unity, understanding and a shared commitment to the development of Southern Borno.

“In his own words: ‘The seat of power comes from God alone. If Allah has decreed it for you, no one can change it; and if Allah has not decreed it for you, no one can give it. Since Almighty Allah has given them (the positions), let us all support them for the progress of our party and our people.’

“To our supporters and media team: ‘We sincerely appreciate your efforts, sacrifices, commitment and dedication. Thank you all, and God bless you.”

As a result of this development, the APC candidate for Borno South will be chosen by consensus rather than by a direct primary.