I Did Not Declare For Presidency, I Only Reaffirmed Labour Party Membership, Says Datti Baba-Ahmed
Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed has come forward to clarify recent headlines regarding his 2027 political plans, dismissing reports of a presidential declaration as false and “misleading.” During a Friday interview on Channels Television, the former vice-presidential candidate addressed the firestorm that erupted following his appearance at the Labour Party National Headquarters in Abuja earlier this week.
Baba-Ahmed emphasized that his previous comments were strictly a reaffirmation of his loyalty to the Labour Party, rather than a formal entry into the 2027 race. While he admitted to the “possibility” of a future run, he stressed that he has not made any official announcement, noting that such a step would have to follow the formal Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable and internal party procedures.
The politician was vocal in his criticism of social media platforms, accusing them of driving “sensationalism” and distorting his message for an emotional audience. He appealed to mainstream media organizations to act as “filters and barriers” against the spread of incorrect narratives, ensuring that the public receives verified information rather than digital rumors.
This clarification comes at a sensitive time for the Labour Party, which is navigating a major leadership split. While Baba-Ahmed has pledged to stay and “fix Nigeria” through the LP platform, his 2023 principal, Peter Obi, has recently moved to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This separation has left supporters of the “Obidient” movement questioning the future direction of the opposition.
Despite the friction caused by the recent reports, the senator revealed that he has shifted his focus toward reconciliation efforts within the political space. He did not provide specific details on who these efforts involve, but the move suggests a desire to mend the cracks that have appeared in the party since the 2023 elections.
The Labour Party leadership has also had to manage the fallout of these conflicting narratives. With the 2027 elections still several years away, the party is struggling to maintain a unified front as prominent members begin to weigh their options for national leadership.
By setting the record straight, Baba-Ahmed appears to be treading carefully, leaving the door open for a future bid while avoiding a premature commitment. He concluded by reiterating that his primary goal remains the stability of the Labour Party and its continued relevance in the Nigerian democratic process.
