Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the running mate to Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election, has publicly refuted claims that the former Anambra State governor has officially left the Labour Party for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Cooperation, Not Defection: Baba-Ahmed's Clarification
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Friday, January 9, 2026, Baba-Ahmed urged the public to scrutinize Obi's recent statements made at a rally in Enugu. He emphasized that Obi's words pointed towards joining a political coalition, not announcing a full-scale party defection.
"It will be good if everyone listens to Peter Obi’s comments at Enugu. He mentioned joining the coalition. I don’t believe I heard him say defection to the ADC," Baba-Ahmed stated. He further challenged the narrative by adding, "I did not hear that; maybe I missed it, but please find out if he joined the coalition or the ADC."
Call for Formal Process and Unaffected Personal Ties
Baba-Ahmed also called upon the Labour Party leadership to provide clarity on whether Obi has followed the required formal procedures to exit the party. He highlighted that a legitimate defection would involve documented steps as per party rules and electoral guidelines.
"It is also good if you find out from Labour Party leadership if His Excellency Peter Obi has submitted a resignation letter and returned his card as required by law," he stated.
Despite the political divergence, Baba-Ahmed assured that his personal relationship with Obi remains strong and cordial. He disclosed that Obi recently attended a family wedding at his residence, underscoring their mutual respect.
"Our personal relationships are solid. Only on the 12th, he attended the wedding in my house, in person, where I have much, much, much respect for Peter Obi," he said in an interview with Trust TV.
Background and Future Political Support
The controversy stems from Peter Obi's public declaration of support for the ADC in December 2025 during a rally at the Nike Lake Resort Hotel in Enugu. At the event, he encouraged members of other opposition parties to join the ADC, framing it as a collective effort to rescue Nigeria.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential race, Baba-Ahmed left the door open for future political collaboration. He indicated that his support for Obi could be reconsidered under specific conditions, notably if Obi fails to secure the ADC ticket and returns to the Labour Party fold.
He concluded that clear communication from both the party leadership and Obi himself is essential to settle the ongoing public speculation regarding his exact party status and the nature of the coalition move.
