Datti Baba-Ahmed Says He Advised Obi to Consider New Running Mate for 2027

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has revealed that he advised Peter Obi to consider selecting a new running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He disclosed that the conversation took place in early 2024 as part of broader discussions on future political strategy.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Baba-Ahmed said he personally suggested to Obi on January 31, 2024, that he explore alliances with other prominent political figures. Among those he mentioned were Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai, as well as any other candidate deemed politically strategic.

Baba-Ahmed clarified that his advice was not driven by personal conflict but by differences in political approach. He emphasized that although he and Obi do not fully share the same political outlook, he continues to support Obi’s ambitions.

In his remarks, he said: “I was the one who told Obi on 31 January, 2024 that ‘Kwankwaso or Nasir El-Rufai or another person, you may approach them. As far as I am concerned I will continue to support you but our politics are different, you let go of 2023 that we won.’”

The former vice-presidential candidate also reiterated his belief that the 2023 Nigerian presidential election was won by the Labour Party. However, he expressed dissatisfaction with how the outcome was handled, suggesting that Obi did not take sufficient action to reclaim what he described as their electoral mandate.

Despite these concerns, Baba-Ahmed maintained that his support for Obi remains intact. He noted that his decision to publicly share his advice was rooted in a desire for transparency and honesty about their political differences as they prepare for the next election cycle.

Discussions about political alliances and running mates are central to Nigeria’s electoral strategy, particularly as the country approaches another general election cycle. The choice of a vice-presidential candidate often reflects efforts to build regional balance, strengthen party coalitions, and appeal to a broader voter base.

The relationship between Obi and Baba-Ahmed was a key component of the Labour Party’s performance in the 2023 election, where the party gained significant support, especially among younger voters and urban populations. However, internal disagreements or differing political strategies could influence how the party positions itself for 2027.

Baba-Ahmed’s suggestion to consider figures like Kwankwaso or El-Rufai points to the importance of coalition-building in Nigeria’s multi-party system. Both individuals have established political structures and influence that could potentially reshape electoral dynamics if alliances are formed.

His continued insistence that the Labour Party won the 2023 election also reflects ongoing debates and divisions over the legitimacy and interpretation of the results. Such claims remain politically sensitive and contribute to broader discussions about electoral transparency and judicial processes in Nigeria.

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed’s revelation highlights emerging strategic conversations within the Labour Party as preparations for the 2027 presidential election begin. While affirming his support for Peter Obi, he made clear that their political approaches differ and that alternative alliances may be worth considering. His comments underscore the evolving nature of political partnerships and the critical decisions that will shape Nigeria’s next electoral contest.