The succession battle in Borno State is gathering momentum, with new developments exposing shifting political alliances ahead of 2027
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Recall that on Monday, Governor Babagana Zulum had dissolved his cabinet, a move that analysts said could further reshape the political landscape in the state.
The dissolution, according to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Bukar Tijani, was aimed at allowing members of the council who may wish to contest elective positions in the forthcoming general elections to do so.
With alliances shifting and new power blocs emerging, observers said the Borno governorship race was fast becoming a high-stakes contest that could redefine the state’s political direction.
Multiple sources familiar with the development told DAILY NIGERIAN that early permutations had pitted Mr Zulum against Vice President Kashim Shettima, with both leaders reportedly backing different candidates.
The sources revealed that while the governor was said to favour the Commissioner for Education, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, the Vice President, was believed to be rooting for Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan of Borno Central.
However, according to the sources, the rivalry may have eased, as both camps have allegedly stepped back from their preferred candidates in search of a consensus option.
“The tension was real at some point, but both sides have now agreed to soften their positions. There is a quiet move toward a compromise candidate,” a source disclosed.
It was gathered that the development comes amid a wave of political recalculations triggered by key deadlines and strategic exits from the race
Notably, the recent March 31 timeline appears to have ruled out some prominent figures earlier tipped for the seat.
Initially, Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori were the arrowheads believed to be gunning for the number-one seat in Borno State.
But the emergence of Mr Dalori as the National Party Chairman (North) of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr Kyari’s decision not to resign his position as minister remains unknown,
dimming speculations about his gubernatorial ambition.
Another figure who is largely promoted by some Borno social media influencers as Mr Zulum’s successor, Engr. Adam Bukar Bababe, has not resigned his position as Executive Secretary of Borno State Geographic Information Service, BOGIS.
Meanwhile, fresh names are gaining traction within the corridors of power. Among them is former NNPCL boss, Malam Mele Kyari, who is reportedly making high-level consultations. Sources said Mr Kyari had been seen at the Villa making efforts to meet President Bola Tinubu regarding his ambition.
“He wants the President to influence the Vice President to support his bid,” a source said.
Also in the mix is Hon. Usman Zannah, who represents Magumeri, Kaga, and Gubio Federal Constituency.
Our sources indicate that Mr. Zannah is actively canvassing for support across various stakeholder groups, engaging in strategic consultations and outreach efforts to consolidate
backing for his position.
Another emerging figure is Dr. Usman Mohammed Shettima, whose sudden absence from official duties has sparked speculation.
An insider said his name appeared among federal appointees who have resigned. “He has quietly resigned as Senior Special Assistant to the Administration and Office Coordination (Office of the Vice President) to pursue his political ambition,” the insider said
Our sources could not independently confirm his resignation from the office of the Secretary to
the Federation.
Also, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, former Commissioner for Works and Housing, who was among Mr Zulum’s dissolved cabinet is another individual gaining traction within the corridors of power.
Other names being talked about included Senator Baba Kaka Garbai and Hon. Adamu Lawan (Zaufanjinba), although their prospects appear less pronounced at this stage.
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