By Hajara Usman
A gubernatorial aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State, Senator Said Alkali, has rejected reports naming consensus candidates for the 2027 general elections, describing the move as undemocratic and a violation of the Electoral Act, 2026.
In a statement issued yesterday by his media aide, Umar Alkali the senator said his attention was drawn to a press release announcing alleged consensus candidates for governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly positions by some party stakeholders.
The senator who was the former Minister for Transport argued that the development was arbitrary and not in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act. Citing Section 84(1) of the Act, Alkali noted that political parties are required to conduct primaries for all elective positions, under the supervision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
While acknowledging that the law allows for consensus candidacy, he stressed that Section 87(1) clearly states that all cleared aspirants must give written consent and voluntarily withdraw from the race before a consensus candidate can emerge.
According to him, the process that led to the announcement of the purported candidates failed to meet these legal requirements, adding that no effort was made to secure the agreement of all aspirants.
“It is in gross violation of the Electoral Act and undermines the principles of internal democracy,” the statement said.
He maintained that his purchase of expression of interest and nomination forms confirms his status as a legitimate aspirant and stakeholder in the process.
He further insisted that any attempt
to impose candidates without due process would not stand.
He further stated that where consensus cannot be properly achieved, the law requires political parties to revert to direct primaries, as provided under the Electoral Act.
The senator formally distanced himself from the alleged consensus arrangement, saying it lacks both constitutional and legal backing. He also vowed to seek redress through all available legal and party mechanisms.
Alkali however reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed commitment to the party’s success in the 2027 general elections.
He also called on his supporters across Gombe State to remain calm, steadfast and supportive as efforts continue to ensure that due process and justice are upheld.
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