Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, who served as the Labour Party’s vice presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has announced his plan to contest the 2027 presidential election. He made this known on Wednesday during a rally held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, where party leaders and supporters were present.
Baba-Ahmed said his decision to seek the presidency was personal and long-standing, explaining that it was not influenced by recent political changes or by the exit of Peter Obi from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress. According to him, his interest in the highest office dates back to before the 2023 election.
He recalled that he had earlier sought a presidential ticket during the Peoples Democratic Party primaries in 2018 before later joining forces with Obi under the Labour Party. He explained that he chose to step aside at the time to support what he believed was a chance to unite the country during the 2023 election.
Addressing concerns around religion and ethnicity, Baba-Ahmed stated that the Nigerian constitution allows any qualified citizen to contest for elective office, regardless of background. He said his decision was driven by the need to contribute to the country’s progress.
He added that while he had openly made his ambition known, he would comply with all party rules and electoral guidelines and would wait for the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Labour Party to release official timetables before taking further steps.
Reacting to the declaration, Labour Party National Chairman, Julius Abure, praised Baba-Ahmed for remaining with the party despite speculations of a possible defection. He said the development showed that the party remained united and active, noting that other key figures, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, had also stayed.
Abure disclosed that Baba-Ahmed encouraged party leaders to meet and reassure members of unity within the party, a move that led to the gathering at the party secretariat. He added that the Labour Party remained committed to providing Nigerians with a credible alternative ahead of future elections.
Baba-Ahmed’s announcement adds to early political movements as parties and aspirants begin positioning ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
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