Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former vice presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, has dismissed widespread rumours suggesting he is planning to defect from the party and align with an emerging opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Tuesday, Baba-Ahmed firmly denied any plans to exit the Labour Party, stating that he has not been persuaded to leave the party he has remained committed to, despite ongoing internal challenges.
“The general message is that I am yet to be convinced to leave the Labour Party. I am yet to be convinced,” he declared.
No Interest in ADC or Opposition Alliance Backing Atiku
Baba-Ahmed also dismissed speculation linking him to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or any coalition rumored to be aligning behind former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He questioned the relevance of the ADC during the 2023 elections, pointing to the Labour Party’s strong performance during that period.
“No. My own thinking was convince me why I should come into ADC. Where was ADC in 2023 when the Labour Party claimed we got 10 million votes?” he asked rhetorically.
He made it clear that the Labour Party remains his political base, regardless of the factional issues or ongoing uncertainties within the party.
No Presidential Ambition for 2027, Committed to Obi
Setting the record straight, Baba-Ahmed categorically stated that he has no ambition to run for president in 2027 and remains loyal to his former running mate, Peter Obi. He reaffirmed his belief in Obi’s leadership and his hope that Obi would again emerge as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the next election cycle.
“I have said this before and I will say it again Labour Party is ready to welcome Peter Obi. I would like to see him emerge as the party’s flagbearer again in 2027, whether or not I am on the ticket,” he explained.
Addressing speculation about a possible solo run, Baba-Ahmed described such claims as unfounded and based on fear-mongering.
“Some people speak their fears. It is not true. I never said that,” he added. “Peter Obi, for sure I’m with him. I’ll support him.”
Conclusion: Firm in Loyalty, Unmoved by Speculation
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed’s statements serve to quell growing speculation about a potential political realignment within the opposition. His remarks also reinforce the perception that, despite turbulence within the Labour Party, he remains committed to the cause he championed in 2023, standing beside Peter Obi as a steadfast ally.
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