Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, has opened up on his decision to part ways with former ally Peter Obi, insisting that his political future cannot be tied to any individual.
While speaking amid ongoing opposition realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, Baba-Ahmed said he chose not to follow Obi’s latest political move because he believed the challenges within the Labour Party should have been confronted and resolved rather than abandoned.
The former senator argued that political parties are bound to face internal disagreements and leadership disputes, maintaining that moving from one platform to another does not automatically eliminate such problems.
According to him, leaders should demonstrate the capacity to fix challenges within their parties instead of walking away when difficulties arise.
Datti revealed that many expected him to align with Obi’s new political direction because of their partnership during the 2023 presidential election. However, he said he reached a different conclusion after carefully assessing the situation and deciding to chart his own course.
Emphasising his independence, the former vice-presidential candidate stated that while he respects Obi, he remains free to make political decisions based on his convictions and principles. He stressed that no politician owns another’s political career and that his decision was informed by what he believes is best for the country’s democratic development.
The remarks highlight growing differences among key opposition figures as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum. Datti’s position also underscores the broader debate within opposition circles over whether political actors should reform existing structures or seek alternative platforms in pursuit of their ambitions.
His comments come at a time of intense political consultations and shifting alliances, with several prominent politicians reassessing their strategies ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive presidential race in 2027.
