2027: Speculation over Yobe SSG's alleged resignation sparks tension
By Duku Joel, Maiduguri Political tension is mounting in Yobe State following unconfirmed reports that the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Malam Wali, has tendered his resignation ahead

By Duku Joel, Maiduguri
Political tension is mounting in Yobe State following unconfirmed reports that the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baba Malam Wali, has tendered his resignation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Multiple sources within the state’s political circles hinted that Wali may be positioning himself to join the race to succeed Governor Mai Mala Buni, whose tenure is expected to end in 2027. However, there has been no official statement from the Yobe State government confirming the development.
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Adding to the intrigue, insiders claim that the purported resignation may have been rejected by Governor Buni, though this remains speculative at the time of filing this report.
The rumours have triggered palpable tension within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, with party stakeholders reportedly divided over succession permutations and the timing of political realignments.
Wali, a key figure in the Buni administration, has long been considered an influential technocrat and political strategist haven considered as one of the longest serving SSG with two term with Gov. Buni and one term with former Governor Ibrahim Gaidam.
His alleged ambition is seen by observers as capable of reshaping the political landscape in Yobe as he will be the first to be elected governor from Zone C if nominated by the party and he eventually wins at the general polls.
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Efforts to obtain official clarification from the state government proved unsuccessful, as calls and messages to Governor Buni's Spokesman were not answered as of press time.
Similarly, Wali has yet to publicly address the speculation surrounding his alleged resignation and political intentions.
But a close source to the SSG informed our correspondent in confidence that, "take it to the bank, oga is going to contest for the governorship seat. I cannot tell you about his resignation or not but you know what the electoral act 2026 says".
Political analysts note that while early manoeuvring ahead of election cycles is not unusual, the absence of clear communication from both the government and the principal actor has allowed rumours to fester, heightening uncertainty within the state.
“This is a sensitive period politically, and silence from key actors often fuels more speculation,” a Damaturu-based political observer told our correspondent.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents and party loyalists alike are watching closely for any official pronouncement that may confirm or dispel the growing rumours.
For now, the uncertainty surrounding Wali’s status underscores the early stirrings of what is expected to be a keenly contested political transition in Yobe State.



