Lawan withdraws from Yobe governorship race, backs APC consensus candidate

The senator representing Yobe North Senatorial District, Ahmad Lawan, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race in Yobe State, throwing his weight behind the party’s consensus candidate, Baba Wali.

Lawan announced his decision after a meeting with the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, in Abuja on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

The former Senate President disclosed that discussions centred on the APC’s choice of candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Yobe State.

The meeting came barely 24 hours after the APC announced Wali, a former Secretary to the Yobe State Government, as the party’s preferred governorship candidate.

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Lawan said his decision followed extensive consultations with his supporters, noting that the majority aligned with the position of the party leadership.

Lawan stated: “I consulted widely, it was clear to me that majority of our supporters were of the view that we support the position of the leadership of the party. I informed him of my decision to support the declaration of Baba Malam Wali as the preferred candidate.

“I therefore, expressed my full support for the position of the party and the consensus candidate. I have willingly withdrawn from the race for the gubernatorial seat.

“I take this opportunity to thank our numerous supporters for the support, solidarity and understanding throughout the period of this contest.”