Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former Vice Presidential Candidate for the Labour Party (LP), has expressed concerns regarding Peter Obi’s prospects for securing strong support from Northern Nigeria in the 2027 general elections.
During an interview on Symfoni TV, he remarked that it is unlikely that the region would come together in support of Obi.
He emphasized that this stance is his personal opinion and noted that he still maintains a good relationship and respect for the major political figures involved.
Datti shared that he had previously suggested Obi begin forming alliances well in advance of the next election cycle.
He stated that on January 31, 2024, he encouraged Obi to connect with prominent northern politicians, including Rabiu Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai, as part of early 2027 preparations.
According to him, planning ahead is vital in politics, and failing to do so years before an election raises concerns about readiness. He noted that his own future involvement would be based on a clear long-term strategy.
Datti also touched upon Obi’s current political path and his increasing closeness with Kwankwaso.
However, he questioned the potential success of such an alliance, stating its outcome remains uncertain and can only be judged with time.
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Additionally, he criticized Obi’s management of internal Labour Party issues, asserting that a candidate who won the party’s ticket should have stayed to resolve its internal problems rather than stepping away.
He said: “I try as much as possible to avoid mentioning names at this stage, but it is very unlikely that the North will rally around Obi. This is my personal opinion, and I still have an excellent relationship and much respect for key political figures.
“I told him, ‘Your Excellency, from this point, there is Rabiu Kwankwaso, there is Nasir El-Rufai, I will like to suggest that you approach them.’ If in 2024 you cannot plan 2027, I am sorry I can’t continue to be with you. Will it work? It’s a big question. We’ll wait and see. Someone who got the Labour Party ticket should have stayed and fixed the problems.”
