Barrister Kashim Musa Tumsah says he will not withdraw from the Yobe State governorship race, insisting that the decision on who becomes governor should rest with voters rather than party endorsements.
His comments come amid reports that the state governor and party leadership are backing another aspirant. However, Mr Tumsah maintains that democratic principles require all contenders to have a fair chance to seek the electorate’s mandate.
He says his decision to remain in the race is driven by support from residents across Yobe’s 17 local government areas, adding that stepping down would amount to a betrayal of their trust.
Mr Tumsah argues that leadership should be earned through service, grassroots engagement and measurable impact, not conferred through political backing. He says he intends to campaign on issues including education, water supply, agriculture and human development, and will present his plans directly to voters.

