Yobe 2027: Allegations of Imposition Stir Tension in Mala/Gaidam Axis
Calls Grow for Transparent Primaries as Stakeholders Reject Consensus Option
By Kolo Musa
A wave of anxiety has reportedly gripped parts of Yobe State following allegations of political maneuvering surrounding the succession plan ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Concerns have been raised over the roles of the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, and the incumbent governor, Mai Mala Buni, with critics alleging attempts to influence the emergence of a preferred successor through a consensus arrangement.
According to this press statement, the development has generated apprehension among political stakeholders and the electorate, who fear that the process may sideline broader participation.
The statement accused the state leadership of prioritizing personal and political loyalties over collective interest, urging Governor Buni to adopt a more inclusive approach in determining his successor as his administration winds down ahead of 2027.
It further alleged that discussions around adopting a consensus method for party primaries were introduced at a recent stakeholders’ meeting, a move said to have been met with resistance from various quarters.
The statement also referenced claims of political assurances tied to the 2027 general elections, including alleged commitments involving electoral support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
However, these claims remain unverified.
Stakeholders advocating for internal democracy have called for the adoption of direct primaries, arguing that such a process would allow party members to freely choose their preferred candidate and strengthen democratic legitimacy.
Observers note that the unfolding political dynamics in Yobe reflect broader concerns about candidate imposition and internal party democracy ahead of the 2027 elections across Nigeria.
Efforts to obtain official responses from the Yobe State Government and relevant political actors were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
