Aliero, Ndume clinch APC’s senate ticket for 4th, 5th time

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja  and Olanrewaju Lawal, Kebbi

Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume and Muhammadu Adamu Aleiro have secured the APC ticket for Borno South and Kebbi Central, respectively.

They were both returned unopposed through an affirmation process conducted during the party’s senatorial primary in Maiduguri, Borno State and Haliru Abdul Stadium, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, yesterday.

Ndume had earlier emerged as the consensus choice of the party after his main challenger, Abdullahi Askira, voluntarily stepped down from the race last month.

Askira explained that his withdrawal followed extensive consultations and appeals from the APC leaders and stakeholders across the senatorial district. If re-elected in the general election, Ndume would be returning to the National Assembly for a fifth term.

Speaking shortly after he was declared winner of the primary, Ndume thanked the APC stakeholders, delegates and party members in Borno South for the confidence they reposed in him.

He also commended Askira for shelving his ambition in the interest of party unity and respect for the wishes of party elders in the zone.

“I want to thank our elders in Borno South for their unwavering support. I want to reassure them that I will continue to promote and protect their interests at all times.

“I must also commend Askira for listening to the appeals and persuasion of party leaders and deciding to withdraw his aspiration. His loyalty and commitment to the party are commendable.”

He further urged the APC members and stakeholders in the district to remain united and continue working together as the country moves closer to the general elections.

Similarly, Aliero clinched the ticket after Kabir Sani Giant withdrew from the race.

The affirmation was subsequently endorsed by the Chairman of the Primary Election Appeal Committee, Garba Muhammad, alongside Attahiru Maccido, chairman of the Affirmation Committee.

Senator Aliero thanked Governor Nasir Idris for his leadership role in reconciling party members and ensuring a smooth and peaceful primary election.

Aliero, who is securing the ticket for the fourth time pledged to build on his past achievements in education, healthcare, agriculture, empowerment and infrastructure development if elected.

Governor Idris applauded aspirants, who voluntarily stepped down in the interest of party unity and progress.