2027: Obi’s Ex-Running Mate, Baba-Ahmed, Declares Presidential Ambition

 2027: Obi’s Ex-Running Mate, Baba-Ahmed, Declares Presidential Ambition

By Joseph Chukwu / Adedamola Ogunbewon (Sources: The Telegraph Nigeria, Tribune Online, Peoples Gazette)

Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s (LP) vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 Nigerian general election, has formally declared his intention to run for President in the 2027 general election amid significant shifts in the country’s political landscape. 

Baba-Ahmed, who served as running mate to former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in 2023, made the announcement on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, during a rally held at the Labour Party’s national secretariat in Abuja. 

Ambition Independent of Obi’s Decisions

His declaration comes barely a week after Peter Obi announced his departure from the Labour Party to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a new coalition platform being built to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Speaking to supporters, Baba-Ahmed stressed that his presidential aspiration is independent of Obi’s political path and predates the 2023 election.

“I have made myself available to contest for the presidency in 2027. I’m not following anybody’s trajectory or stepping into anybody’s shoes,” he said, adding that his interest in the presidency existed before Peter Obi filed his own candidacy. 

Political Background and Motivation

The former lawmaker also recounted earlier efforts to pursue the nation’s highest office, noting that he had contested in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primaries in Port Harcourt in October 2018 before aligning with Obi under the Labour Party banner. 

Baba-Ahmed said he joined Obi in 2023 because he saw a rare opportunity for national unity, but insisted his vision now is to serve Nigeria based on principle rather than political reaction. 

On Religion and Ethnicity

Addressing questions about religion and ethnicity, Baba-Ahmed insisted Nigeria’s constitution guarantees every qualified citizen the right to contest elective office.

“Yes, I am a practising Muslim. Yes, I am a Hausa man. But Nigeria’s constitution allows me to contest. I’m doing this because Nigeria needs help,” he affirmed. 

Party Loyalty and Process

While he publicly declared his intention, Baba-Ahmed clarified that he will adhere strictly to party and electoral regulations, waiting for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to release the official timetable and the Labour Party to formally call for aspirants. 

Party Leadership’s Reaction

The Labour Party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, praised Baba-Ahmed for remaining committed to the party despite speculations he might defect following Obi’s exit. Abure noted that this development signals that the Labour Party remains united and intact. 

Abure also revealed that Baba-Ahmed was instrumental in organising the rally, including suggesting a meeting of party leaders and supporters to reaffirm unity and strengthen the party’s standing ahead of 2027. 

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