Audu Mustapha, a Borno State House of Assembly member, has broken his silence on a tearful video circulating online. The Magumeri LGA representative released a statement through his media consultant to clarify the footage.
His tears weren't from desperation or disappointment, Mustapha insisted. Over 100 constituents, many from vulnerable backgrounds, surprised him by pooling resources to buy his nomination forms.
According to the statement signed by Dr. Babakura Bukar, these residents urged him to contest again in 2027.
Their gesture of solidarity overwhelmed him emotionally, he explained.
"They presented the forms as a show of trust and support," the statement noted. Mustapha said he was moved by their belief in his continued service.
The lawmaker dismissed reports suggesting he was begging for reelection. He noted that his emotional reaction came from genuine appreciation, not distress.
Mustapha also addressed speculation about the All Progressives Congress selection process. He said the party hasn't finalized its primary elections or chosen candidates yet.
"No ticket has been imposed or withheld at this stage," his office told reporters. The clarification aimed to stop misleading narratives on social media.
He urged Nigerians to ignore unverified claims spreading online. Only confirmed information should guide public opinion, Mustapha stressed.
The statement warned against misrepresenting his emotional response as political desperation. His constituents' gesture had simply touched his heart deeply.