In a significant political clarification, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, who was the vice-presidential candidate alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 general election, has firmly denied reports claiming he has declared an intention to run for president in the 2027 polls.
Dismissal of Presidential Declaration
The former senator made the clarification during a television interview on Friday, January 9, 2026. He explicitly stated that he never declared his candidacy for the nation's highest office, countering narratives circulating on social media and some news platforms.
"I never declared to contest the presidency, even though there could be a possibility of that happening. I certainly did not declare for the presidency. I simply reiterated my membership of the Labour Party," Baba-Ahmed said during his appearance on Channels Television.
He emphasized that any formal declaration would follow the official timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the internal processes of his political party when the time is right.
Unwavering Commitment to Labour Party
Amidst the defection of his former principal, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Baba-Ahmed has chosen a different path. He confirmed his continued membership and loyalty to the Labour Party (LP), the platform on which they contested the last election.
"The only reason I am here today is to tell the world that I remain in the Labour Party. I am not convinced by the arguments advanced for leaving the party," he asserted.
He pushed back against the notion that the Labour Party's relevance was tied solely to Peter Obi, reminding the public that the party existed before the 2023 election cycle and had produced governors and other elected officials prior to that.
Skepticism Over Obi's ADC Prospects
In a related development, Baba-Ahmed has expressed doubts about Peter Obi's chances of securing the presidential ticket of the ADC, the coalition movement his former boss recently joined.
Speaking in an interview on Trust TV, he cited the complex internal dynamics and multiple entrenched interests within the emerging opposition coalition as potential hurdles.
"I think it is very unlikely that Peter Obi will secure the ticket. If he does, I will be happy for him," Datti stated, highlighting the competitive nature of the race for the coalition's flagbearer.
This commentary adds a new layer to the evolving political landscape as opposition figures strategize for the 2027 general election.
Broader Political Context
The political realignment comes as the Obidient Movement, a key support base for Peter Obi, has reportedly ruled out any possibility of the former Anambra governor returning to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The movement's national coordinator, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, cited the PDP's unresolved internal crises as a major deterrent.
Baba-Ahmed also criticized what he described as sensationalism on social media, where he said "wrong narratives" are often spread to "emotional listeners." His latest statements aim to set the record straight regarding his own political future and allegiance as the race towards 2027 gradually takes shape.
