The political coast has been cleared for Senator Ali Ndume as his main challenger for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket in Borno South, Honourable Abdullahi Musa Askira, has officially withdrawn from the race.
The development, confirmed in a statement by his aide, Bilyaminu Umar Ngulde in Abuja, followed intense pressure and appeals from APC stakeholders across the senatorial district.
Askira revealed that his decision came after wide consultations within the party, effectively handing Ndume a smooth path back to the Senate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His statement read 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 give their 100% 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.”
“For our supporters and media team, we sincerely appreciate your efforts, sacrifices, commitment, and dedication. Thank you all, and God bless you.”
With Askira’s withdrawal, the APC is now set to adopt a consensus arrangement for the Borno South ticket, eliminating the need for a direct primary and handing Ndume a major political boost in his bid to return to the National Assembly.
