Former IGP Alkali Baba Enters Yobe Race, Rejects Party Consensus Plan

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Former Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has formally declared his interest in the 2027 Yobe State governorship race under the All Progressives Congress (APC), dismissing reported moves within the party to adopt a consensus arrangement.

He made the declaration on Monday in Abuja after submitting his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, insisting that his ambition remains intact and independent of any internal negotiation or agreement to step down.

“I have submitted my nomination form, and I am contesting because I want to continue and improve on where the present governor will stop,” he said.

His entry into the race comes amid growing political discussions within the APC in Yobe State, where some stakeholders are reportedly favouring a former Secretary to the State Government as a consensus candidate ahead of the party primaries.

However, Alkali Baba said he was not part of any such arrangement and had not committed to supporting any aspirant.

“I have not seen where any consensus has taken place. I have not participated in any consensus meeting, and I have not agreed to support anybody,” he stated.

He anchored his governorship ambition on his background in national security and public service, arguing that insecurity remains one of the most critical challenges affecting governance and development in the state.

According to him, strengthening security would create the foundation for economic growth and stability in Yobe.

“Provision of security is the primary objective of government. I have the capacity to do that,” he said.

Beyond security, the former police chief outlined plans focused on agriculture, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, noting that Yobe’s economy requires deliberate reforms to unlock its full potential.

“We want to improve education, agriculture, health, and create employment opportunities for young people,” he added. “Without security, you cannot function effectively or carry out meaningful economic activity.”

Alkali Baba said his decision to join the governorship race was driven by personal conviction and a sense of duty to contribute to the state’s development.

“I feel I have the passion, credibility, and capacity to lead Yobe State as governor,” he said.

The APC is expected to conduct its governorship primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections, with multiple aspirants already expressing interest in succeeding the incumbent Governor Mai Mala Buni, who is completing his second term. Party leaders are currently consulting on the most appropriate mode of candidate selection amid rising internal competition.