The senator representing Borno Central Senatorial District, Kaka Shehu Lawan, has withdrawn from the state governorship race and endorsed Mustapha Gubio as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The decision was reached at a stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday in Abuja, according to a statement by the senator’s legislative aide, Usman Alkali.

Alkali said the meeting, attended by key party leaders and stakeholders, resolved that Lawan should step down to pave the way for Gubio’s emergence as the party’s governorship candidate.

He added that the senator is expected to retain his seat in the Senate following the development.

The meeting was chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima and had in attendance Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, APC leaders, National Assembly members, and members of the Borno Elders Forum.

According to the statement, the decision was taken to promote unity and strengthen cohesion within the party ahead of the elections.

Meanwhile, the Borno State Government confirmed that the APC has adopted Gubio as its consensus governorship candidate.

In a separate statement, the governor’s spokesperson, Dauda Illiya, said Zulum presented Gubio to Vice President Shettima in Abuja as the party’s preferred candidate.

Zulum described the move as a reflection of a united position within the party in the state and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and support.

He also acknowledged the role of the Vice President in fostering unity among party stakeholders in Borno State.

Party leaders and stakeholders are expected to return to Maiduguri for further consultations following the development.

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed confidence that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) can grow into a powerful opposition capable of defeating the ruling party.

In a message posted on his X account on Thursday night, Atiku said he met with other top members of the party to discuss its next steps and future direction.

“I joined other leaders of our party in a crucial meeting to decide the next phase of our progress,” he stated.

He added that the gathering shows unity within the party.

According to him, the ADC is focused on strengthening its structure and preparing for the political task ahead.

He said the party is determined to build a strong platform that can challenge the current leadership and offer Nigerians a better alternative.

Atiku added that beyond winning power, the party aims to restore hope, rebuild trust, and return the country to a path of growth and purpose.

He stressed that unity and commitment among members will be key in achieving these goals.