In a candid television interview that has sent ripples through Nigeria's political landscape, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has expressed significant doubts about Peter Obi's ability to secure the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 general election.
Doubt Cast on Obi's ADC Prospects
Speaking during an interview on Trust TV, Datti Baba-Ahmed argued that the internal dynamics and composition of the ADC make it a difficult terrain for any single aspirant, including the former Anambra State governor. He stated it is "very unlikely" that Peter Obi will clinch the ADC ticket, though he added he would be happy for his former principal if he succeeded.
The former senator pointed to what he described as entrenched interests and unresolved ambitions within the emerging opposition coalition as major hurdles. He emphasized that the ADC lacks a unifying figure like a Muhammadu Buhari or a Bola Tinubu, which he believes is crucial for such an alliance. "All of them must win," Datti remarked, highlighting the potential for individual ambitions to derail the coalition's consensus.
Staying Put in the Labour Party
Datti Baba-Ahmed used the platform to firmly reaffirm his commitment to the Labour Party, despite Peter Obi's recent departure from the party. He revealed that he was not convinced by the arguments for leaving and chose to remain. He pushed back against narratives that the LP's relevance ended with Obi's exit, reminding the public that the party existed long before the 2023 elections and had produced governors and other elected officials.
Addressing speculation about his relationship with Obi, Datti clarified that the former presidential candidate never formally invited him to join the ADC. "People know me; there are certain things you would rather not approach me with," he said. However, he was quick to note that their personal relationship remains cordial, revealing that Obi attended a wedding at his home on January 12th.
An Open Door and a Critical View of ADC
In a surprising show of continued solidarity, Datti Baba-Ahmed left the door open for Peter Obi's potential return to the Labour Party. He pledged that if Obi fails to get the ADC ticket and decides to come back, he would work to secure the LP ticket for him and help mend fences with anyone he might have disagreements with.
The LP chieftain also offered a scathing critique of the ADC's composition, expressing deep skepticism. He described many of its key figures as architects of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). "Almost everyone in the ADC today, except Peter Obi, are people who helped establish the APC that is misruling Nigeria. Why should I walk into that trap again?" he questioned rhetorically.
This development comes amid reports that the Obidient Movement has also ruled out a return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Peter Obi, citing the party's unresolved internal crises. The political chessboard for the 2027 presidential election is thus taking shape, with key alliances and defections defining the early stages of the race.
