2027: North Unlikely to Back Obi, Kwankwaso Joint Ticket — Datti Baba-Ahmed

The Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has offered a detailed assessment of the dynamics surrounding Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, expressing doubts about the likelihood of northern political forces uniting behind key opposition figures in future contests.

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Speaking on shifting opposition alignments, Baba-Ahmed said he has deliberately avoided mentioning specific individuals in recent political discussions, but emphasised that regional considerations remain crucial in determining electoral outcomes.

“It is very unlikely that the North will rally around OK. That is my personal opinion,” he said, while noting that he maintains cordial relationships with major political stakeholders.

He recalled a meeting with former presidential candidate Peter Obi in January 2024 at the John Wilson Hotel, where he advised him on broader political strategy.

“At that time, I told him there are key figures like Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai. I suggested he should engage them,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed added that he had urged early strategic planning, stressing that political success requires long-term vision beyond immediate election cycles.

“If in 2024 you cannot plan for 2027, then I cannot continue to be with you,” he said.

He noted that current opposition alignments may have emerged from earlier discussions, though he questioned their practicality and chances of success.

He also expressed concern over shifting political alliances, questioning why some actors failed to support certain candidates in previous elections but are now forming new alignments.

“What changed between 2022 and 2023?” he asked, pointing to what he described as inconsistencies in political behaviour.

Highlighting Nigeria’s changing demographics, Baba-Ahmed said there is increasing demand for a new generation of leadership, but warned that internal contradictions within political tickets could undermine that goal.

“You are looking for new blood, a new generation, yet you may have a vice-presidential figure who is older in age, education, political profile, and experience,” he said.

He further stressed the importance of regional influence in shaping leadership balance, citing Kwankwaso as an example of a politician with significant grassroots dominance.

“The local government is almost his state; the state is almost his region. And this is someone with strong ambition and temperament, who, then, will actually be the president?” he asked.

According to him, while opposition coalitions are possible in theory, historical voting patterns and internal party dynamics make such alliances difficult to sustain.

He concluded that consistency in party structure and long-term political strategy will remain essential as opposition figures continue to reposition ahead of future elections.