Baba-Ahmed Mulls Presidential Run in 2027

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, former Labour Party Vice Presidential candidate, has hinted at potentially running for president in 2027 if certain conditions are met.

On Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, he stated that he might consider the presidency if Peter Obi and another southern aspirant drop out of the race.

Baba-Ahmed emphasized that his motivation is not driven by personal ambition, but rather a desire to secure Nigerians, halt corruption, and ensure stability in the country. He revealed that he had attempted to run for president in 2019 but was unsuccessful.

Despite his potential interest in the presidency, Baba-Ahmed pledged continued loyalty to Peter Obi, stating that he would support him in 2027 if he chooses to run.

He expressed admiration for Obi and another southern figure, but emphasized that his own decision to run would depend on their participation in the race.

“Look at my trajectory, and I’ve said this repeatedly, that in 2019, I aspired for the presidency, and I lost, together with 11 others.”

“I religiously supported Peter Obi and I would do so again in 2027, unless certain two people that I have tremendous respect for decide not to take it, and the God Almighty in His infinite mercies keeps dropping it for me.

“Except if that happens, I can tell you Peter will contest for sure because he’s in the game, he contested before, I’ll support him. If he doesn’t, or another person that I won’t call his name from the South, if they don’t contest, otherwise I’m not ambitious. My key ambition is to stop the killings, stop the stealing, stop the slide.”

Baba-Ahmed was Obi’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election.

Obi placed third behind candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bola Tinubu, and Atiku Abubakar, respectively.