Kingmakers Speak: Yobe Traditional Rulers Throw Weight Behind Tinubu for 2027, Endorse Wali!

Traditional rulers across Yobe State have overwhelmingly expressed their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Alhaji Baba Malam Wali, and unequivocally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in the 2027 general elections. This significant show of support was revealed by Wali himself, who has been actively engaging with traditional institutions throughout the state.

Alhaji Baba Malam Wali explained that his ongoing visits to various emirates are primarily aimed at appreciating the royal fathers for their steadfast support, while also seeking their continued prayers and cooperation as the 2027 elections draw closer. He disclosed that his delegation has successfully visited 13 out of the 14 emirates in Yobe State, with plans to engage the remaining one soon. "We have visited 13 out of the 14 emirates in Yobe State. We visited them to thank them for their support and also to seek their prayers and support as we moved forward," Wali stated.

Wali highlighted the immense goodwill shown by the traditional institutions towards his candidacy, noting that he has been honored with several traditional titles during these visits. He conveyed his profound appreciation to the traditional rulers and the people of Yobe State for the confidence reposed in him, emphasizing that this widespread support has further emboldened his commitment to his political aspirations.

Regarding President Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid, Wali reported a largely favorable response from the traditional rulers and communities encountered during his engagements. "We have already told everyone that Mr President has done well, and we believe that he will be re-elected in the 2027 general election," he affirmed, adding that his team had not faced any resistance to the president's candidacy during their extensive consultations.

The APC governorship candidate also took the opportunity to call for greater unity among party members and supporters. He extended his gratitude to individuals and various groups who have contributed significantly to his political journey thus far.

Further elaborating on the party's strategy, Yobe State APC Chairman, Muhammad Gadaka, underscored the importance of securing the support and blessings of traditional rulers. He stated that this engagement is crucial for promoting unity, fostering peaceful political participation, and ensuring a credible electoral process. Gadaka emphasized the vital role traditional rulers play in communicating with council members, district heads, and ward heads about the necessity of maintaining political harmony and peaceful elections. He declared, "The same vote we cast for our governor is the same vote we will cast for Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

In separate remarks, several prominent Emirs reiterated their support. HRH Mai Hamza Buba Ibn Isa Mashio, the Emir of Gudi, and HRH Isma’il Ahmad Dala Ibn Madugu Khaji II, the Emir of Jajere, both recalled their established relationships with Wali and offered prayers for his success in the upcoming 2027 elections. The Emir of Potiskum, HRH Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya, provided an assurance of his emirate's continued support for the APC. At Tikau, HRH Abubakar Muhammad Ibn Grema urged Wali, should he be elected governor, to prioritize agricultural development and livestock improvement as key strategies to alleviate poverty and enhance livelihoods. Similarly, at Fune, HRH Saleh Idris Ibn Usman commended Wali for his initiative in engaging traditional rulers, describing it as both timely and important. The Emir of Ngelzarma, HRH Muhammad Mai Yeri Ibn Isa III, praised Governor Mai Mala Buni for the developmental projects executed across the state and declared his support for Wali, praying for the APC's success in the forthcoming elections. These wide-ranging engagements brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, and other key stakeholders as Alhaji Baba Malam Wali continues his critical consultations with institutions and communities ahead of the 2027 governorship election.