Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan Withdraws from Borno Governorship Race to Endorse Consensus Candidate

Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan withdraws from the Borno governorship race. Mustapha Gubio emerges as the APC consensus candidate following an Abuja stakeholders meeting.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 3:31 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Daily Post Nigeria

Strategic Realignment Within the Borno APC Power Structure

The political landscape in Borno State shifted significantly following a decisive stakeholders meeting where Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan announced his withdrawal from the governorship race. Representing Borno Central, Lawan’s exit facilitates the emergence of Mustapha Gubio as the consensus candidate for the All Progressives Congress. According to a statement from the senator’s legislative aide, Usman Alkali, the move was a calculated effort to prevent internal friction and present a unified front for the ruling party.

Vice Presidential Mediation Secures Party Cohesion in Abuja

The negotiations were held in Abuja under the chairmanship of Vice President Kashim Shettima, reflecting the national importance of the Borno political transition. High ranking officials, including Governor Babagana Zulum and members of the Borno Elders Forum, were present to ratify the agreement. This top level intervention underscores the party’s commitment to internal stability, with the Vice President playing a central role in fostering a consensus that balances the ambitions of various state power brokers.

Legislative Continuity for Lawan Amid Gubernatorial Exit

As part of the political arrangement reached during the Thursday meeting, Senator Lawan is expected to retain his current position within the Senate. This trade off ensures that the Borno Central Senatorial District maintains its representation while the governorship slot is cleared for Gubio. Usman Alkali noted that the decision was reached after thorough consultation with party leaders, ensuring that Lawan remains a vital component of the APC’s legislative strategy even as he steps back from the state executive pursuit.