The Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, on Wednesday formally declared his intention to contest the presidency in 2027, reaffirming his commitment to the Labour Party amid ongoing political realignments.
Baba-Ahmed, 56, who was the running mate to former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, made the declaration at a rally held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. His announcement comes barely one week after Obi exited the Labour Party for the African Democratic Congress, a move that has sparked intense debate over the future of the party and the broader opposition ahead of the next general election.
Addressing journalists at the secretariat, Baba-Ahmed made it clear that he would not follow Obi to the ADC, insisting that his presidential ambition was independent and long-standing. He said he was not stepping into anyone’s shoes or following any individual’s political trajectory, noting that he had aspired to the presidency even before Obi’s 2023 bid.
The former lawmaker recalled his earlier attempts to secure a presidential ticket, including his participation in the Peoples Democratic Party primaries in 2018, before aligning with Obi under the Labour Party platform. He said his decision to serve as Obi’s running mate in 2023 was driven by what he described as a rare opportunity for national unity.
Baba-Ahmed also addressed questions about his religion and ethnicity, stating that while he is a practising Muslim and a Hausa man, the Nigerian constitution guarantees his right to contest for the highest office. He said his decision to seek the presidency was motivated by a desire to contribute to solving Nigeria’s challenges.
He, however, stressed that he would strictly adhere to party rules and electoral guidelines, adding that he would not make further moves until the Independent National Electoral Commission releases the election timetable and the Labour Party opens the process for interested aspirants.
Reacting to the declaration, the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, commended Baba-Ahmed for remaining in the party despite speculation that he might defect following Obi’s exit. Abure said the development showed that the party remained intact, noting that key figures such as Abia State Governor Alex Otti had also reaffirmed their loyalty to the Labour Party.
Abure disclosed that Baba-Ahmed had personally suggested a meeting of party leaders and members to strengthen unity within the party, an idea that culminated in the gathering at the party secretariat. He expressed confidence that the Labour Party would remain united and continue to offer Nigerians a credible alternative.
Baba-Ahmed’s declaration has added a new dimension to early manoeuvring for the 2027 presidential election, as political parties and opposition figures begin to reposition amid shifting alliances.
