By Abdulkareem Haruna

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Borno State has expressed deep gratitude to the people of Southern Borno following what it described as an “unprecedented success” at its governorship campaign flag-off in Biu town.

In a press statement released on Friday, October 30, 2026, by the State Publicity Secretary, Baba Ahmed Mustapha, the opposition party said the huge turnout of residents proved that the state is ready for a change of government in the 2027 general elections.

“What happened in Biu was not just a rally; it was a statement. Biu has spoken, Southern Borno has spoken, and indeed, Borno has spoken,” Mr Mustapha declared. ”The mammoth crowd that defied all odds has proven that Borno is ready for rescue.”

Praise for Leaders and Candidates
The ADC leadership singled out key party leaders and political figures who contributed to the success of the Biu event.
The party expressed special appreciation to its leader, Kashim Ibrahim Imam, praising his political guidance and financial support toward building a new platform for the people.

“Sir, your vision, fatherly guidance, financial sacrifice, and unshakable belief in a new Borno is the reason ADC stands today,” the statement noted.

“You have shown that true leadership is about building a platform for the people.”

Addressing the party’s governorship choice, the ADC expressed strong confidence in its governorship candidate, Babagana Buhari, and his running mate, a retired military officer, Abdulmalik Bulama.

“You have presented Borno with the most credible, competent, and balanced Rescue Ticket,” Mr Mustapha said. “The energy of Hon. Buhari and the discipline and security expertise of General Bulama gave Southern Borno hope. Borno now knows that security will be handled by a General who understands war.”

Party Unity and Mobilisation
The statement also recognized the efforts of the party’s State Chairman, Kolo Bukar, for steering the party without conflict, as well as Southern Borno leader, Nicholas Msheliza, for bringing together communities across the zone, including Biu, Hawul, Kwaya-Kusar, Bayo, and Shani.

“You proved that Southern Borno is fully united behind ADC,” the statement said regarding Mr Msheliza’s mobilization work. ”Southern Borno is now ADC.”

Furthermore, the party thanked its legal advisers, Kumalia Esq. and Obed Esq., for keeping the campaign strictly within the legal framework, while acknowledging the presence of the Senator representing Borno Central as proof that the ADC movement covers the entire state, not just the southern senatorial district.

“Your presence and solidarity sent a strong signal that the ADC rescue movement is not a Southern agenda but a Borno-wide movement. Borno Central is with us,” the spokesperson added.
Road to 2027

Thanking field workers, media teams, women, and youth groups who gathered under the sun, the party described its grassroots supporters as the real “heroes” of the political movement.

The party announced that the campaign momentum built in Biu will immediately expand to other regions of the state.

“This flag-off is just the beginning. From Biu, we move to Central and Northern Borno,” the statement concluded.

“The train of rescue has left Biu and it will not stop until it reaches Government House, Maiduguri in 2027.”