Yobe 2027: SSG Baba Malam Wali’s Governorship Ambition Sparks Debate Amid Damuli Contract Scandal
EFCC probe, unfinished multi-billion naira projects and political succession tensions dominate discourse in Yobe
By Babagana Usman, Damaturu
Fresh political developments in Yobe State have brought the governorship ambition of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Malam Wali, into sharp focus, even as controversies surrounding an alleged multi-billion naira contract scandal continue to generate concern.
Reports indicate that Wali is preparing to resign from office in compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections, fueling speculations about his readiness to succeed Governor Mai Mala Buni.
However, his ambition is unfolding amid lingering allegations tied to Damuli Investment Limited, a company at the center of a major contract controversy involving several state projects.
The scandal gained traction following investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including the arrest of a Bureau de Change operator in Kano allegedly linked to transactions involving top Yobe officials.
Further scrutiny emerged after the Yobe State House of Assembly constituted an ad hoc committee to investigate petitions regarding the alleged non-performance of contracts awarded to Damuli Investment Limited.
The petition, submitted by elders from Gujba Local Government Area, accused the firm of collecting over N1.4 billion for the construction and renovation of a government lodge without delivering meaningful progress.
Findings by the Assembly’s committee revealed that several contracts worth billions of naira awarded to the company recorded poor or negligible execution. While one project was reportedly completed, many others remained below 50 percent completion, with some virtually abandoned.
Particularly alarming were hospital renovation projects across Damaturu, Potiskum, Nguru, Geidam, Gashua, and Damagun, collectively valued at over N5.5 billion, yet reportedly stalled at about 25 percent completion despite full payment.
Despite these findings, the committee controversially cleared the contractor of wrongdoing, a position that has continued to raise questions among stakeholders.
The EFCC’s subsequent involvement has further intensified public attention, with reports linking some top government officials, including the SSG, to ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, political tension is mounting over succession plans as Governor Mai Mala Buni remains silent on his preferred successor. Analysts say growing speculation that Wali may emerge as the governor’s choice has triggered anxiety among citizens.
The situation is further compounded by a recent directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mandating political appointees seeking elective offices in 2027 to resign before the end of March 2026.
As the political landscape evolves, observers note that the interplay between governance records, anti-corruption concerns, and succession politics will significantly shape the build-up to the 2027 governorship race in Yobe State.
