The Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima, on Monday announced former Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Youths Empowerment, Usman Mamman Durkwa, as the new deputy governor of the state.

Durkwa will take over the deputy governor’s office following the death of Zannah Umar Mustapha who died on August 15 in a hotel while on an official assignment in Yola.

A letter signed by his spokesman to the governor, Isa Gusau, indicated that Durkwa’s name was on Monday sent to the Borno State House of Assembly for confirmation.

“I have the honour to convey vide this letter the name of Hon. Usman Mamman Durkwa for confirmation as Deputy Governor of Borno State following the demise of Alhaji Zannah Umar Mustapha on 15th August, 2015,” the governor stated in the letter.

The governor’s spokesman further said that his boss was sure that the Assembly would quickly consider his nomination considering “the very respectful and cordial working relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government in Borno State.”

The governor reassured on his pledge to stand by the late deputy governor’s family and urged youths not to take advantage of the appointment to erupt crisis under the guise of celebrations, warning that any act of lawlessness will not be tolerated by security agencies.

Durkwa, a seasoned politician has been in the corridors of power since 2003 when he was first appointed as a commissioner by Senator Ali Modu Sheriff.

He has headed different ministries, which include land and survey, environment and religious affairs, since his first appointment.