Former IGP Usman Alkali joins Yobe governorship race as consensus talks collapse

A former Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali, has entered the race for the Yobe State governorship following the collapse of consensus talks among aspirants.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Damaturu, Alkali confirmed that four other aspirants had already obtained their nomination forms, signalling the breakdown of earlier agreements aimed at producing a consensus candidate.

“I therefore obtained the form to join the race. No one has ever shown me where to sign or even asked me to speak,” he said.

The former police chief explained that his understanding of the party’s consensus model was based on a voluntary agreement among aspirants to support a single candidate. He noted that since that had not happened in Yobe, he had decided to proceed with his ambition.

Alkali said he arrived in Damaturu over the weekend to verify the validity of his nomination forms and also consulted party guidelines and relevant stakeholders before taking the decision.

When asked whether he would step down if party leaders asked him to support another aspirant, Alkali said his response would depend on the conditions presented.

“I would, if I agree to the terms,” he stated.

He urged his supporters to remain steadfast and committed throughout the primary election process, standing by him regardless of whether the primary holds as scheduled or otherwise.