Baba-Ahmed makes his move, throws Hat into Presidential Ring

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Senator Yusuf Datti Baba‑Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 Nigerian presidency, signalling a new chapter in opposition politics as the country gears up for next year’s polls.

Baba-Ahmed made the announcement on Wednesday at a rally held at the Labour Party National Secretariat in Abuja, a week after his former running mate, Peter Obi, left the party to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Addressing supporters, he underscored that his presidential ambition predates his association with Obi and is rooted in a long-standing commitment to national service rather than reactionary politics.

“I have made myself available to contest for the office in 2027. I’m not following anybody’s trajectory or stepping into anybody’s shoes,” he said, emphasising that his aspiration was conceived before Obi filed his 2023 presidential nomination.

Baba-Ahmed, a former senator and seasoned lawmaker, also tackled sensitive issues around religion and ethnicity, asserting that such factors should not hinder qualified Nigerians from seeking the nation’s highest office.

He reiterated his belief in constitutional rights and the inclusive nature of Nigeria’s democratic system.

The veteran politician, who once contested the Peoples Democratic Party presidential primary before allying with Obi in 2023, stressed his intention to adhere to party rules and electoral timelines, waiting for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Labour Party to release official schedules before advancing his campaign.

Labour Party’s Julius Abure, the National Chairman, hailed Baba-Ahmed’s decision to remain in the party despite rumours of mass defections following Obi’s exit, describing it as a sign of continuity and resilience within the party.

Baba-Ahmed’s declaration has already reshaped internal party dynamics and injected fresh momentum into early manoeuvring for the 2027 elections, as the opposition landscape continues to evolve in response to shifting alliances and strategic recalibrations.