Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, has stated that Peter Obi is welcome to seek the party’s presidential ticket again for the 2027 elections—whether or not he remains his running mate.
Speaking on The Morning Brief, a Channels Television programme on Wednesday, Baba-Ahmed emphasized his respect for Obi, saying, “Peter Obi is someone I have tremendous respect for. The Labour Party welcomes him to contest again in 2027, with or without me. The ADC is also free to support a southern candidate.”
Addressing concerns over Obi’s involvement in coalition discussions led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Baba-Ahmed dismissed any suggestions of anti-party conduct.
“This is not anti-party activity. It’s part of a larger, unfolding political movement. A coalition means different political parties, interest groups, and individuals are coming together. I’ve attended such meetings, and Peter Obi is welcome to continue attending them too,” he said.
Amid ongoing internal tensions within the Labour Party, Baba-Ahmed confirmed that Obi was informed of his presence at a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting organized by the Julius Abure-led faction. He said the meeting aimed at reconciling aggrieved members.
He added, “The Labour Party is not something to walk away from or to abandon. Every move I make is done with transparency—those who need to know are always informed. I may not reveal everything about our internal processes, but I can say confidently that no one is left in the dark.”
Calling for unity among opposition parties, Baba-Ahmed concluded, “The way forward is dialogue. When parties sit down and talk, the media will eventually get the story. I see myself as a positive catalyst, helping to bring people together to understand each other and to make renewed efforts to rescue Nigeria.”
