The Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, on Wednesday formally announced his presidential ambition for 2027, signaling a fresh phase in Nigeria’s opposition realignments.
Baba-Ahmed, who ran alongside former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, made the declaration at a rally held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, just days after Obi left the Labour Party for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
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Addressing supporters, Baba-Ahmed stressed that his presidential aspiration predates the 2023 election and is independent of Obi’s political decisions.
“I have made myself to contest for the office in 2027. I’m not following anybody’s trajectory or stepping into anybody’s shoes,” he said. “Before His Excellency Governor Peter Obi filed for the presidency, I aspired for the presidency. The records are there for you to see.”
The former lawmaker recalled his earlier attempt to secure a presidential ticket, noting he contested in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries in 2018 before joining Obi in the Labour Party.
“I saw a rare opportunity for national unity to have elected Peter Obi in 2023, and that is why I decided to flow with it,” he said, adding that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees every qualified citizen the right to contest elective office regardless of religion or ethnicity.
“Yes, I am a practising Muslim. Yes, I am a Hausa man. But I am Nigerian, and the constitution allows me to contest. I’m doing this because Nigeria needs help,” Baba-Ahmed said.
While declaring his intention, he said he would adhere to party and electoral guidelines. “Until INEC releases the timetable and the Labour Party leadership calls for aspirants, I will not say anything more. But Nigerians know the truth,” he added.
Factional Labour Party National Chairman Julius Abure commended Baba-Ahmed for remaining in the party despite Obi’s exit, highlighting that key figures, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, have also stayed.
Abure said Baba-Ahmed personally suggested the gathering to reaffirm unity within the party, underscoring the Labour Party’s commitment to remain intact and provide a genuine alternative for Nigerians.
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