Damaturu — The race for Yobe’s 2027 governorship has taken a dramatic turn as former Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali, officially joins the contest following the breakdown of consensus talks among aspirants.
Alkali revealed that the earlier plan to produce a single candidate failed after at least four other aspirants went ahead to purchase nomination forms—signalling that unity negotiations had fallen apart.
“I had to step in,” he said, explaining that no one engaged him meaningfully in the supposed consensus process.
According to him, true consensus should be voluntary, transparent, and involve all stakeholders—not a one-sided arrangement. With that process now clearly off track, he decided to pursue his ambition openly.
The former police chief also disclosed that he returned to Damaturu to personally verify his nomination forms and consult widely with party leaders before making his move—suggesting a calculated and deliberate entry into the race.
On whether he could still step down if party leaders intervene, Alkali didn’t shut the door completely. He said any such decision would depend on the fairness and acceptability of the terms presented.
He has now urged his supporters to stay committed and focused, regardless of how the primary election unfolds.
With consensus talks in ruins and more aspirants in the ring, Yobe’s governorship race is shaping up to be a full-blown political contest—no shortcuts, no easy deals.
Leave a comment