By Mohammad Imam
As political preparations for the 2027 gubernatorial election gather momentum in Yobe State, the contest among prospective aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has intensified.
With the second term of Governor Mai Mala Buni set to conclude in 2027, the state is inevitably approaching a transition phase that will usher in new leadership. However, Yobe’s political structure, shaped by informal conventions and power balancing, may significantly influence the succession process.
Zoning Structure and Power Rotation
Yobe State is politically divided into three senatorial districts, commonly referred to as Zones A, B, and C:
• Zone A – Yobe North
• Zone B – Yobe South
• Zone C – Yobe East
Although not constitutionally binding, there exists an unwritten tradition of rotating the governorship among these zones to ensure fairness and inclusivity.
With Governor Buni hailing from Zone A, expectations are increasingly tilting toward Zone B to produce the next governor in 2027.
Emerging Aspirants and Political Alignments
Key figures currently being mentioned in the race include:
• Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai (Zone B)
• Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu (Zone B)
• Senator Ahmed Lawan (Zone C)
• Senator Musa Mustapha (Zone A)
Each of these aspirants brings varying degrees of political experience, influence, and public perception into the unfolding contest.
Historical Context
Since 1999, power in Yobe State has largely remained within a dominant political bloc, contributing to the APC’s image of stability and cohesion.
However, there was a brief deviation in 2007 when the late Senator Mamman Ali from Zone B (Yobe South) became governor but passed away less than two years into office. His death left what many consider an incomplete tenure for the zone.
Following this, Ibrahim Geidam assumed office and governed from 2009 to 2019, after which he moved to the Senate and is currently serving as Minister of Police Affairs.
Assessing the Contenders
Senator Ahmed Lawan, former Senate President (2019–2023), remains a prominent figure but is perceived by some analysts to have lost political momentum following his unsuccessful presidential bid in 2023.
Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, who served as Deputy Governor for a decade and later held ministerial positions in Works and Housing as well as Power, faces criticism from some quarters regarding the tangible impact of his years in public office.
Senator Musa Mustapha, representing Yobe East, also enters the equation with political backing and personal ties within the established power structure.
The Rising Profile of Senator Ibrahim Bomai
Amid the shifting political dynamics, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai of Zone B is increasingly seen as a strong contender, particularly among grassroots supporters.
His political appeal is largely anchored on:
• Humanitarian interventions targeting widows, orphans, and vulnerable groups
• Women empowerment programs, including cash support schemes benefiting over 4,000 women across Fika, Fune, Nangere, and Potiskum
• Educational support, with thousands of local scholarships and international opportunities, including sending 51 students abroad in 2025
• Infrastructure development, such as rural and urban roads, solar-powered boreholes, street lighting, and healthcare initiatives
Observers note that many of these interventions have been implemented without overt political conditions, reflecting a needs-based approach rather than transactional politics.
The Argument for Zone B
Advocates of power rotation argue that fairness demands giving Zone B the opportunity to complete the interrupted tenure of the late Mamman Ali.
This sentiment is gaining traction within political circles, especially among those who prioritize equity and balance in Yobe’s power-sharing arrangement.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As the countdown to 2027 continues, the APC in Yobe State faces the delicate task of managing internal interests, zoning expectations, and electoral viability.
While shifting alliances and political calculations will shape the outcome, the final decision ultimately rests with party delegates during the primaries—and the electorate in the general election.
Conclusion
Yobe State stands at a critical political crossroads. The next governor will need to combine administrative competence, political inclusiveness, and a genuine commitment to development.
Among the emerging contenders, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai is being positioned by supporters as a candidate whose experience, philanthropy, and governance record align with these expectations.
Nevertheless, the evolving political landscape means that no outcome is predetermined. The dynamics of zoning, party unity, and voter preference will ultimately determine who emerges as Yobe’s next governor in 2027.
Mohammad Imam wrote from Abuja
