Ex-IGP Alkali Baba joins Yobe governorship race, rejects APC consensus plan

Former Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba has joined the 2027 governorship race in Yobe State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Baba made his position known on Monday in Abuja after submitting his expression of interest and nomination forms.

His words: “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.

“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 entry comes amid reports of consultations that the APC in Yobe state has adopted a consensus candidate ahead of the elections.

The reports indicate that a former secretary to the Yobe state government has been picked, with backing from influential figures in the state.

Baba, however, dismissed the idea of any consensus arrangement, saying he won’t step down for anyone.

“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 said.

He said his experience in security and public service positions him to address the state’s challenges.

“Provision of security is the primary objective of government. I have the capacity to do that. We want to improve education, agriculture, health, and create employment opportunities for young people,” he said.

He said insecurity remains a major obstacle to development, adding that his decision to run is driven by passion and a sense of duty.

“Without security, you cannot function effectively or carry out meaningful economic activity. I feel I have the passion, credibility, and capacity to lead Yobe State as governor,” he said.