By Musa Baba Adamu
The race for the 2027 governorship election in Yobe State has taken a new turn as former Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali, formally declared his ambition following the breakdown of consensus arrangements among aspirants.
Alkali made his position known on Sunday while addressing journalists in Damaturu, stating that the failure of ongoing consultations compelled him to join the contest.
According to him, the emergence of multiple aspirants who had already purchased nomination forms signalled that earlier moves to produce a single candidate through consensus had collapsed.
The former police boss said his decision was in line with democratic principles, noting that consensus, as practised within the party, requires the voluntary agreement of all contenders to back one candidate.
He maintained that since such agreement was no longer feasible, he had no option but to pursue his ambition.
Alkali further disclosed that he was in Damaturu to validate his nomination documents and consult relevant stakeholders, as well as review party guidelines before making his move.
On the possibility of stepping down in favour of another aspirant, he said his decision would depend on the nature of any agreement reached with party leaders.
He also called on his supporters to remain loyal and committed throughout the primary election process, regardless of any eventual changes to the timetable.
