By : Gbenga Akingbule .
Borno State Governor , Prof . Babagana Zulum on Tuesday assured that all is set for the announcement of the running mate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate Engr . Mustapha Gubio , next week .
Gatekeepers News 
reports that Governor Zulum said the decision on the choice of a credible running mate rests with the APC governorship candidate, Engr. Gubio. He, however, noted that he and other party stakeholders would be available to offer guidance and valuable advice throughout the selection process.
Zulum gave the assurance while speaking during a visit to the palace of the Emir of Biu, His Royal Highness Mai Umar Mustapha Aliyu, in Biu town, Biu Local Government Area.
The governor urged the traditional ruler and well-meaning citizens of Borno State to intensify prayers for divine guidance in the selection of a credible deputy governorship candidate amongst about 27 persons aspiring for the position .
He expressed confidence that the process would produce a competent and trustworthy running mate who would complement the APC governorship candidate and contribute to the continued development and stability of the state.
” I know that our politicians are anxious to know who will be the next deputy governoship candidate . I will not impose any person on our governorship candidate , we can only advice and pray for a suitable choice .”
Prof. Zulum recalled how he was advised by Vice President Kashim Shettima to pick Hon Umar Kadafur as his running mate noting that the ” Vice president only advised me , he did not impose any aspirant on me ”
The governor told the people of Biu Local Government Area that the position of the deputy governorship candidate is not the exclusive preserve of Biu local government but it belongs to the entire state. He stressed that the selection process would be guided by competence, fairness, and the overall interest of Borno State rather than sectional considerations.
The governor thefore assured the residents of more developmental projects , stating that he intends to flag off a developmental project before departing the town in the next two days .
Howevere , It’s pertinent to recall that Biu Emirate which consist of four local government areas of Biu , Hawul. Kwaya- Kusar and Bayo has continued to produce the deputy governor of Borno State .
With the announcement for the running mate to the APC governorship candidate slated for next week, political observers are of the opinion that many of the of the 27 aspriant may be left disappointed despite their ambitions and support from various political blocs.
