Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has declared that Peter Obi is at liberty to pursue the party’s presidential ticket in 2027, whether or not he returns as his running mate.
Appearing on The Morning Brief, a Channels Television programme on Wednesday, Baba-Ahmed reiterated his unwavering support for Obi’s political aspirations.
“I have tremendous respect for Peter Obi,” he said. “He is welcome to contest again on the Labour Party platform in 2027 with or without me. The ADC is also free to adopt a southern candidate.”
A former senator, Baba-Ahmed underscored the need for effective and compassionate leadership in Nigeria.
“We need leaders with capacity and compassion those who deliver development, not disaster,” he said.
When asked whether Obi’s involvement in coalition efforts led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could be considered anti-party activity, Baba-Ahmed dismissed the notion.
“This is not anti-party activity. It’s part of a larger political movement. Coalitions bring together parties, interest groups, and individuals. It’s an evolving situation,” he explained, adding that Obi’s engagement in such initiatives is entirely appropriate.
Addressing the issue of zoning, Baba-Ahmed maintained that the South should produce Nigeria’s next president.
In the 2023 presidential election, Obi and Baba-Ahmed ran on the Labour Party ticket. Obi finished third, while Bola Tinubu was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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