…Labour Party stalwart reaffirms loyalty, backs Obi for 2027
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has clarified his stance on the 2027 presidential race, firmly dismissing rumours of defection and downplaying any immediate presidential ambition.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, Baba-Ahmed stated that he would only consider running for president in 2027 under specific conditions — notably, if former running mate Peter Obi chooses not to contest and another unnamed political figure from southern Nigeria also stays out of the race.
“If Peter Obi doesn’t contest, and one other person whose name I won’t mention from the South also doesn’t, then I’ll consider it,” Baba-Ahmed said. “Otherwise, I’m not ambitious. My key ambition is to stop the killings and stop the stealing.”
He reiterated his unwavering support for Obi, whom he described as his preferred candidate for the Labour Party’s 2027 presidential ticket. “I would like Peter Obi to win the nomination of the Labour Party and contest in 2027, with or without me. I religiously supported Peter Obi, and I would do it again,” he affirmed.
Addressing widespread speculation about a potential defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Baba-Ahmed dismissed such claims as unfounded. “I’ve not seen enough reason to move to the ADC,” he said, maintaining that he remains fully committed to the Labour Party.
Baba-Ahmed also reflected on his political journey, noting his previous attempt at the presidency in 2019, which did not succeed. Despite that, he said his political mission has always been guided by a desire to combat insecurity and corruption rather than personal ambition.
His comments come amidst growing realignments and speculations within Nigeria’s political landscape, as parties begin subtle manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Comments here are solely the responsibility of the commenters