Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has stated that he might consider running for president in 2027—but only under specific circumstances.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Tuesday, Baba-Ahmed clarified that personal ambition was not his motivation, and that his potential candidacy would only emerge if two prominent figures, including Peter Obi, choose not to run.
“Look at my trajectory,” he said. “In 2019, I aspired for the presidency and I lost, together with 11 others. I religiously supported Peter Obi and I would do so again in 2027, unless certain two people that I have tremendous respect for decide not to take it, and God Almighty in His infinite mercies keeps dropping it for me.”
He reiterated his loyalty to Peter Obi, with whom he ran in the 2023 elections under the Labour Party, finishing third according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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“Except if that happens, I can tell you Peter will contest for sure because he’s in the game, he contested before, I’ll support him,” he said. “If he doesn’t, or another person that I won’t call his name from the South, if they don’t contest, otherwise I’m not ambitious.”
Baba-Ahmed also expressed deep concern for the state of the nation and highlighted the key issues driving his political involvement.
“My key ambition is to stop the killings, stop the stealing, stop the slide,” he added.
His comments come amidst rising speculation over who will challenge the ruling party in 2027, and underscore the ongoing internal dynamics of the Labour Party and opposition alliances.
