Zulum wins Borno APC ticket, rejects offers to be VP in 2023 

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket to run again in 2023.

Zulum will face Mohammed Ali Jajari of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Jabari emerged winner on Wednesday after beating his opponent Mohammed Imam at the primaries.

Imam was the PDP governorship standard bearer in the 2019 general elections.

On Thursday, Zulum thanked the party leaders and members after accepting nomination as APC flag bearer.

He also announced that he would not accept to serve as APC vice presidential candidate in 2023.

The Professor lamented the killing of more than 30 youths around Kala-Balge last weekend.

Zulum said the massacre should remind everyone of of the reality of the problems and the need to work towards recovery, stability and prosperity of Borno.

He said ahead of the APC presidential primary, promotional media content, including articles by notable columnists were associating him with the presidency.

“Let me reveal with apologies, that some close associates of key presidential aspirants have sent me offers for the position of running mate, as possible Vice President, depending on the outcome of the primaries.

“I have thought deeply about these offers because becoming Vice President is considered attractive. I have thought about all the powers and privileges of being VP.

“I can see the honour of presiding over meetings attended by Governors and ministers and the privilege of having a presidential Jet at one’s disposal. I can see the honour of presidential receptions within and outside Nigeria.

“However, I have asked myself, that should I get the opportunity to become VP and raise my political profile, what happens to all our ongoing works for the people of Borno State?”

Zulum said though more than 10,000 houses have been constructed and over 20 communities resettled, thousands are still homeless and in desperate need of food, water and healthcare.

“I have asked myself, what happens to all these plans that I am central to, which are helping to fast track our recovery in Borno State?

“I came to the conclusion that while a chance to become VP could benefit my profile as an individual, becoming reelected as Governor has the potential of more overall and more assurance of benefit to the good people.

“I therefore say that while I thank those who may be considering me for the position of VP, I prefer to stay back and work drastically for the people”, Zulum told the gathering.