Key Takeaways
- Baba Malam Wali, APC candidate for Yobe State governor, receives endorsements from key leaders.
- Traditional authorities emphasize the need for accessibility and genuine advice in governance.
- Efforts aim to unify political stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.
The ambition of Alhaji Baba Malam Wali, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Yobe State governorship in 2027, has received a significant boost following endorsements from traditional and political leaders across Yobe North. These endorsements were solidified during a series of consultations with prominent figures including the Emir of Bade, Alhaji (Dr) Abubakar Umar Suleiman, the Emir of Machina, Alhaji (Dr.) Bashir Albishir Bukar, and former Senate President, Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan.
Hailing from Nguru, Wali is recognized by local leaders as a candidate aligned with the aspirations of Yobe North. During his visit to the Bade Emirate, Emir Abubakar Umar Suleiman referred to Wali as 'our own,' encouraging him to remain open to counsel and avoid isolation from valuable advice if he secures office.
The Emir underscored the role of traditional institutions in governance, promising ongoing support and engagement, emphasizing that the responsibilities of leadership ultimately belong to Allah. He advised Wali against forming exclusive political groups that could hinder access to genuine counsel from well-meaning citizens.
Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, representative of Yobe North, also voiced firm support for Wali’s candidacy. He assured that the people of Yobe North are prepared to increase their electoral turnout in support of Wali, expressing a commitment to achieving greater success than in previous elections.
“This time around, our votes will exceed what we have been doing,” Lawan stated, urging unity among APC members and outreach to opposition figures in order to foster a cohesive political environment ahead of the elections.
Similarly, during Wali's meeting with Emir Bashir Albishir Bukar in Machina, the Emir praised Wali's loyalty and integrity, urging the populace to rally behind him. Recognizing Wali as a trusted figure, he highlighted their familial ties and promised continued honest counsel should Wali be elected governor.
Responding to these endorsements, Wali reaffirmed his connection to the emirate, pledging to uphold the institution's values if elected. He expressed gratitude towards Senator Lawan for being an early supporter following his nomination, highlighting the importance of faithfulness and continuity in governance.
Wali shared his past experience working in the Bade area under the NEDZAP initiative, reinforcing his commitment to the residents. He called on voters to support all APC candidates, suggesting that synchronized political alignment across government levels would enhance development efforts throughout the state.
The Yobe State APC Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Gadaka, stated that these visits were part of a larger initiative to officially present Wali and other candidates to traditional leaders, seeking their blessings and guidance. He noted that this approach aligns with Governor Mai Mala Buni’s directives, emphasizing the pivotal role of traditional leaders in promoting social unity and facilitating effective political processes.
The ongoing consultations have not only consolidated Wali’s campaign in Yobe North but have also shown a clear signal of solidarity among traditional and political leaders in support of his ambition to be Yobe State's first governor from Zone C.
Why This Matters
The endorsements from influential figures in Yobe North signify a strategic consolidation of support for Baba Malam Wali as he navigates the competitive landscape of the 2027 governorship race. This underscores the essential role of traditional leadership in shaping political dynamics in the region.