Former Inspector-General of Police Usman Alkali has officially entered the race for the Yobe State governorship election in 2027 under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Alkali announced his candidacy on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Damaturu, the state capital, where he confirmed the validity of his nomination forms obtained from the party.
Alkali stated that he had thoroughly reviewed the APC guidelines and consulted with relevant stakeholders before proceeding with his ambition. He revealed that four other aspirants had already obtained their nomination forms, indicating a breakdown of the consensus arrangement that had been initially proposed among the contenders.
According to Alkali, the consensus model was based on a voluntary agreement among aspirants to support a single candidate. However, since this agreement has not materialized in Yobe, he decided to move forward with his governorship bid. He emphasized that no one had directed him to sign any document or asked him to speak on the matter.
When asked whether he would step down if APC leaders requested him to support another aspirant, Alkali responded that his decision would depend on the terms presented. He said, "I would, if I agree to the terms." He urged his supporters to remain steadfast and committed to his ambition, regardless of whether the primary election proceeds as scheduled or not.
Background of Usman Alkali
Usman Alkali was appointed as the 21st Nigerian Inspector General of Police by former President Muhammadu Buhari. He succeeded Mohammed Adamu, who retired from the Nigeria Police Force in February 2021. His appointment was confirmed by the Police Council on Friday, June 4, 2021.
Related Developments
In a similar move, former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu also sought the APC nomination for the 2027 Nasarawa State governorship election. Adamu rejected the consensus candidate, Senator Ahmed Wadada, insisting on a competitive primary election. His campaign director emphasized that there was no national endorsement for any aspirant, promoting a fair electoral process.
Additionally, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has declared his candidacy for the 2027 Bauchi State governorship election under the APC. Tuggar stressed the need for quality leadership to foster progress and prosperity in Bauchi, pledging to protect minority rights and promote inclusive governance for sustainable development.
