Yobe 2027: Former IGP Alkali Submits Nomination Form, Rejects APC Consensus Push
By Kevin Stella Kita
Former Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has officially declared his ambition to contest the 2027 governorship election in Yobe State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), firmly rejecting reported moves within the party to adopt a consensus candidate.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday after submitting his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, Baba made it clear that he remains fully in the race and has not entered into any agreement to step down for another aspirant.
“My name is Usman Alkali, a retired Inspector General. I am an indigene of Yobe State, and I want to contest for the office of Governor of Yobe State,” he said.
“I have submitted my nomination form, and I am contesting because I want to continue and improve on where the present governor will stop.”
His declaration comes amid growing speculation that key stakeholders within the APC are backing a former Secretary to the Yobe State Government as a consensus candidate, reportedly with the support of influential political actors.
But the former police chief dismissed such claims, distancing himself from any arrangement.
“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.
Baba anchored his ambition on his extensive experience in security and public service, arguing that he is well-positioned to tackle the state’s pressing challenges, particularly insecurity
“Provision of security is the primary objective of government. I have the capacity to do that,” he said.
Beyond security, he outlined a development agenda focused on agriculture, education, healthcare, and youth employment, noting that Yobe’s largely agrarian economy requires deliberate investment and reform.
“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.”
On what drives his gubernatorial bid, Baba pointed to a sense of duty and personal conviction.
“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 elections, as the incumbent governor, Mai Mala Buni, prepares to complete his second term. Party leaders are currently grappling with increasing interest from multiple aspirants, even as internal consultations continue over the mode of candidate selection.
