Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has announced his intention to contest the presidency in 2027.
Baba-Ahmed made the declaration on Wednesday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, a development coming shortly after the party’s presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, left the Labour Party for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Addressing party members and supporters, Baba-Ahmed said his presidential ambition was not tied to Obi’s recent political move, stressing that his aspiration predates the 2023 election.
He recalled that he had previously sought the presidency before eventually emerging as Obi’s running mate, noting that he had participated in a major party’s presidential primaries as far back as 2018.
Baba-Ahmed said he supported Obi’s 2023 bid because he saw a unique opportunity for national unity, insisting that his decision at the time was driven by what he believed was in the best interest of the country.
On concerns bordering on religion and ethnicity, the former lawmaker maintained that Nigeria’s constitution grants every qualified citizen the right to seek elective office, regardless of faith or ethnic background. He said his decision to run was motivated by the need to help address Nigeria’s challenges.
However, he added that as a loyal party member, he would await the release of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable and the Labour Party’s official guidelines before formally pursuing the ambition.
Reacting to the announcement, Julius Abure, factional national chairman of the Labour Party, praised Baba-Ahmed for remaining with the party despite speculations that he might defect following Obi’s exit.
Abure said Baba-Ahmed’s stance showed that the Labour Party remained united, noting that key figures within the party, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, had also reaffirmed their commitment to the platform.
He added that Baba-Ahmed had proposed a meeting of party leaders and members to strengthen unity within the party, a move he said underscored the party’s resolve to remain cohesive and present a credible alternative to Nigerians ahead of future elections.