Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, has anointed his immediate past commissioner of works, Mustapha Gubio, as his preferred candidate for the governorship election in 2027.

The spokesman of the governor, Malam Dauda Iliya, who confirmed this Daily Trust on Tuesday, noted that Gubio is the candidate to consolidate on the development stride of his principal.

Earlier, the spokesman has shared the picture on his Facebook page of Gubio presenting the expression of interest and nomination forms of All Progressive Congress (APC) to his principal.

In the photo, Gubio was standing side-by-side with Governor, the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Mungono, and other supporters that accompanied him.

However, many political analysts believe that Gubio's nomination by the governor will spark division among the party loyalists, especially the supporters of Vice President, Kashim Shettima.

It is believed that both Zulum and Kashim are supporting different candidates.

The entry of Gubio into the race is expected to add to the momentum as the party prepares for the primary election.