Borno: I've Not Fallen Out With Shettima, Says Deputy Governor

SAN FRANCISCO, February 08, (THEWILL) -  Those expressing worry about the unfounded rumour of a misunderstanding between the Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima and the deputy governor, Zannah Umar Mustapha, can now heave a sigh of relief.

The deputy governor,Mustapha, said at the weekend that there is no iota of truth in the rumour.

He maintained  that he remains loyal to Governor  Shettima and will continue to work for the success of the government and their  re-election next year  .

Mustapha, who spoke  during a visit to the palace of the Emir  of his hometown, Biu, Alhaji Umar Mustapha Aliyu, ,  said   he will continue to work with Shettima for the success of the  administration .

The deputy governor was in Biu  to formally register  and pick up the membership card of  the All Progressives Congress (APC) at Zarawuyaku Ward in the ongoing nationwide registration exercise of the party.

Mustapha disclosed that the Borno State chapter of  APC is  getting stronger everyday and relationship between the political actors is "intact and cordial.

" According to Mustapha, "In an ideal democratic setting, you cannot rule out little resentments because people have the right to talk.

But, as our traditional rulers who are not partisan, we always count on your prayers to succeed.

"We would remain loyal to Governor Shettima who is not only the governor of our dear state but the leader of the party.

All of us in Southern Borno are solidly behind him.

" Mustapha said despite challenges, they have delivered their campaign promises in the areas of building houses, roads, health centers, job creation and tireless efforts in restoring peace.

The deputy governor therefore advised his people to come out enmasse and register, saying  APC remains the credible alternative party in Nigeria .

"Your royal highness, we are witnessing impressive turnout of people across the 27 Local Government Areas for registration; in fact, the cards have finished in some places but the exercise will continue and everybody will get his card," he told the Emir.

The Emir of Biu , in his response,  urged politicians to shun violence, as he maintained that politics and governance are about delivering the dividends of democracy  to the people.