Datti Baba-Ahmed was the vice-presidential candidate for the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 elections.
He stated that Peter Obi is free to run for president again in 2027, regardless of his own role as a potential running mate.
Baba-Ahmed expressed strong support for Obi’s possible candidacy in the future.
Datti Baba-Ahmed, who was the vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, has said that Peter Obi is at liberty to run for president again in 2027 regardless of whether he is chosen as Obi’s running mate.
Speaking during an appearance on The Morning Brief, a programme aired by Channels Television on Wednesday, Baba-Ahmed expressed his unwavering support for Obi’s potential return as the party’s presidential candidate.
“The Labour Party still welcomes him to return, secure the ticket, and contest in 2027 with or without me,” he stated. He also acknowledged the African Democratic Congress (ADC), encouraging the party to consider fielding a southern candidate for the race.
Baba-Ahmed stressed the importance of strong, compassionate, and effective leadership in Nigeria, arguing that citizens deserve more than empty promises.
“We need capacity and compassion. We need leaders who will move Nigeria forward those who keep their word and bring results, not excuses or setbacks,” he emphasized.
Responding to questions about Obi’s involvement in coalition discussions particularly those spearheaded by the ADC Baba-Ahmed rejected suggestions that such moves were anti-party activities.
“This is not a betrayal or anti-party behavior. It’s simply a developing political situation,” he explained. “A coalition means that parties, interest groups, and individuals are aligning for a common goal.”
He also underscored the significance of power rotation, advocating for the South to produce the next president in 2027.
Peter Obi and Datti Baba-Ahmed represented the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, where they finished third. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was ultimately declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
