By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State, Ibrahim Mohammed Ibbiyo, has faulted alleged attempts to impose a successor on Governor Mai Mala Buni ahead of the 2027 governorship election, warning that any move to sidestep party and electoral guidelines would be challenged in court.
In a rejoinder titled “Yobe 2027 and the Search for a Credible Successor,” made available to journalists in Damaturu, Ibbiyo accused the state government and its allies of orchestrating a media campaign to promote preferred candidates whom he claimed lack the experience and capacity to govern the state effectively.
He was reacting to an April 5 publication by Daily Trust titled “Soft Options for Buni’s Successor,” which highlighted some perceived frontrunners for the 2027 governorship race.
Ibbiyo described the report as a sponsored narrative allegedly driven by forces within the state government, particularly the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Mallam Wali, whom he suggested could be the administration’s preferred candidate.
According to him, governments seeking to “cover their tracks” often favour successors who will sustain their style of governance or shield perceived shortcomings. He stressed that the people of Yobe are more interested in competence, credibility, and development than in political imposition.
The APC chieftain argued that the alleged government-backed aspirants fall short when compared with other contenders, listing Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai, Kashim Musa Tumsah, Alhaji Lawan Kolo, and Hon. Jibrin Maigari as more credible alternatives.
He, however, singled out Senator Bomai as the most suitable candidate, citing his performance at the National Assembly, accessibility, and strong grassroots support, particularly among youths.
Ibbiyo also emphasised zoning and equity, noting that Yobe South (Zone B), which he said accounts for more than half of the state’s population, should produce the next governor.
Taking a swipe at Wali, Ibbiyo questioned his suitability for the governorship, alleging limited exposure and raising concerns over corruption allegations. He further claimed that feedback from civil servants suggests negative perceptions about the SSG.
While acknowledging the political rise of Hon. Salisu Mukhtari, Chairman of Potiskum Local Government Area, Ibbiyo dismissed other alleged preferred candidates as technocrats lacking grassroots political structures or products of godfatherism.
He reminded party stakeholders that the process of candidate selection is clearly outlined in the APC constitution and electoral guidelines, warning against any attempt to undermine due process.
“Any attempt to sidestep these guidelines will be resisted. We will meet in court if necessary,” he said.
Ibbiyo also criticised Senator Lawan, noting that despite his long tenure in the National Assembly, he is “burnt out” and allegedly linked to corrupt practices.
Reiterating his position, he maintained that Bomai’s origin from Yobe South, combined with his legislative experience and grassroots appeal, makes him a strong contender for the governorship.
He urged APC leaders at both state and national levels to uphold internal democracy and avoid imposing candidates ahead of the 2027 election.
