Datti Baba-Ahmed Declares Independence From Obi, Joins PRP

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has clarified his political stance, insisting that his decisions are independent of former presidential candidate Peter Obi. Baba-Ahmed, who was Obi’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election, said his move to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) was based on principle and conviction, not loyalty to any individual.

Speaking on the Naija Unfiltered podcast, Baba-Ahmed explained that many assumed he would follow Obi into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after the Labour Party’s internal crisis. He rejected that assumption, stressing that his political choices are his own.

“They thought I would follow Peter Obi, but I had given enough sympathy then. As a leader, I believed he should have solved the problem within the Labour Party instead of leaving,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed questioned the logic of abandoning one party due to internal disputes only to join another that could face similar challenges. He argued that political leadership requires fixing problems rather than walking away.

“If Abure was a problem, what makes him think the Nwosu or David Mark of the ADC will not be a problem? What makes him think the chairman of Seriake’s party, NDC, will not be a problem? It’s the same thing wherever you go. Stay here and fix the problem,” he stated.

He emphasised that his refusal to join Obi in the ADC was consistent with his principles. “With due respect, Peter Obi does not own my politics, he does not own me. I am independent,” Baba-Ahmed declared.

According to him, he had communicated his reasons directly to Obi, explaining that his decision was not personal but strategic. “I gave my cogent and logical reason for not joining the ADC, all of which have come through,” he added.

Baba-Ahmed’s move to the PRP marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics. While the Labour Party and Obi continue to explore new alliances, Baba-Ahmed’s decision underscores divisions within the opposition camp over strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.

His remarks highlight the growing realignments among political figures seeking platforms that reflect their values and offer stability. For Baba-Ahmed, the PRP provides a base to pursue his political future without the baggage of unresolved disputes.

The development also signals the challenges facing Nigeria’s opposition parties as they attempt to consolidate strength against the ruling APC. Baba-Ahmed’s insistence on independence reflects broader concerns about personality-driven politics and the need for institutional stability.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, his stance adds another layer to the evolving dynamics within Nigeria’s political landscape, where alliances are shifting and leaders are redefining their roles.