By Ayo Ayodele
Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, has declared that former presidential hopeful Peter Obi is free to seek the party’s ticket again in 2027 — whether or not he chooses him as a running mate.
Baba-Ahmed made the statement on Wednesday during an appearance on The Morning Brief, a Channels Television programme.
“There are two individuals I deeply respect, and one of them is Peter Obi. I welcome him openly,” he said. “The Labour Party also welcomes him to return, retain the ticket, and contest in 2027 — with or without me.”
His comments come amid growing speculation over coalition talks led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with some accusing Peter Obi of engaging in anti-party activity. However, Baba-Ahmed dismissed the claims.
“This is not anti-party activity. It is an unfolding situation,” he explained. “A coalition means political parties, interest groups, and individuals coming together. I’ve attended coalition meetings, and Peter Obi is welcome to do the same.”
Addressing internal tensions within the Labour Party, Baba-Ahmed confirmed that Obi was aware of his attendance at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting convened by the Abure-led faction. He stressed that the meeting was part of efforts to reconcile aggrieved members.
“The Labour Party is not one to walk away from or abandon,” he stated. “Every step I take is communicated to the concerned stakeholders. I don’t need to go into operational details, but I can say everyone who should be informed is informed.”
Calling for unity and dialogue among political parties, Baba-Ahmed described himself as a “positive catalyst” in ongoing efforts to build a stronger opposition.
“I am bringing people together to understand each other and to re-strategise. We must make another meaningful attempt to rescue Nigeria,” he concluded.