2027: Coalition of 17 LGAs supports Wali to clinch APC governorship ticket in Yobe

A major political coalition representing the 17 local government areas (LGAs) of Yobe State has officially endorsed governorship aspirant Baba Malam Wali for the 2027 elections, claiming that two prominent senators have agreed to step down in his favour.

The group, Coalition of the Progressive Movement of 17 Local Government Areas (COLGAS), announced its unconditional support for Wali on Saturday during a solidarity meeting in Damaturu, Yobe State.

Speaking at the event, COLGAS President Hon Mohammed Musa Potiskum said the coalition, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Mai Mala Buni and Minister of Police Affairs Ibrahim Gaidam “are 100% in favor” of Wali.

He commended Senators Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan and Musa Mustapha for what he described as their courage in agreeing to resign from the governorship contest based on the choice of APC stakeholders in the state.

Potiskum cited former Yobe Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Baba Malam Wali’s track record, grassroots connections and commitment to addressing insecurity, education and infrastructure challenges.

The Patron of COLGAS, Hon. Abubakar Bala Dada, urged residents to accept Wali as “sent by God”, adding: “What God has done is the right one. We are all beneficiaries of consensus, and consensus brings peace and development as we have proven time and again in this state.”

Mohammad Saleh Ahmed, president of the Baba Malam Wali Unity Alliance, described Wali as “a veteran technocrat and a man of proven ability”, saying Yobe profits greatly from the pursuit of expertise and demonstrated ability.

He also expressed deep gratitude to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued strengthening of democracy and unity within the party.

The coalition’s female leader, Falmata Ibrahim Gaji, said Yobe women are “100% supportive” of Wali’s candidacy, saying Wali will build on the good works of Governor Mai Mala Buni.

The coalition called on other political stakeholders and civil society organizations to join forces behind Wali’s aspiration, while urging the ruling party to ensure a level playing field that respects popular choice.