Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the 2023 vice-presidential candidate for the Labour Party (LP), has expressed concern regarding Peter Obi’s ability to secure the presidential ticket for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking on Thursday, Baba-Ahmed confirmed his decision to remain with the Labour Party despite Obi’s recent defection, due to what he called a crowded field of ambitious leaders within the newly formed ADC coalition.
Peter Obi, who led the “Obidient” movement under the Labour Party, recently exited the party to join the ADC. This decision was intended to create a formidable third force coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
However, the ADC has become a destination for several political heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor El-Rufai and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. These figures, many of whom have presidential ambitions, have raised questions about the ability of the party to agree on a single consensus candidate.
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has officially declined to follow Peter Obi to the ADC, opting instead to stay and stabilize the Labour Party.
Baba-Ahmed identified the presence of established figures like Atiku Abubakar, who recently stated he would not step down for any candidate, as a primary barrier to Obi securing the ADC nomination;
It is very unlikely that Peter Obi will secure the ticket… Atiku will not accept a vice-presidential slot. Amaechi may not accept it. Peter Obi will not accept it. All of them must win. I say to Peter Obi: go and get the ticket and come back… Tinubu knew I would not get the PDP ticket. He is a master politician
Despite the split, Baba-Ahmed stated he would welcome Obi back to the Labour Party and support his bid if the ADC fails to grant him the presidential ticket.
He characterized the ADC as lesser evil compared to the APC but warned that the party is composed of the same actors who formed the ruling party in 2015.
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