A former Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali, has formally entered the governorship race in Yobe State, following the breakdown of efforts to produce a consensus candidate among aspirants.
Alkali announced his decision on Sunday in Damaturu, noting that the earlier agreement among contenders had collapsed after several aspirants proceeded to obtain nomination forms.
He said the development left him with no option but to join the race.
“I therefore obtained the form to join the movement. No one has ever shown me where to sign or even asked me to speak,” Alkali said.
The former police chief explained that his initial understanding of the party’s arrangement was based on a voluntary consensus model, where aspirants agree to rally behind a single candidate.
“That is the meaning of consensus. Now that this has not happened in Yobe, I have decided to go ahead with my ambition,” he said.
Alkali disclosed that he arrived in Damaturu over the weekend to validate his nomination forms and consult relevant stakeholders, including reviewing party guidelines before taking the decision.
He, however, left open the possibility of stepping down, depending on the outcome of further negotiations within the party.
“I would, if I agree to the terms,” he said.
He also called on his supporters to remain committed throughout the process, urging them to stay resolute regardless of developments surrounding the party’s primary election.