A former Labour Party (LP) vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has expressed doubts about Peter Obi’s ability to secure strong political support in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV, Datti said it is unlikely that the northern region would collectively rally behind Obi, though he emphasized that his remarks reflect his personal opinion.
He also stressed that he maintains respect and cordial relations with key political actors involved in the unfolding political dynamics.
Datti revealed that he had earlier advised Obi to begin early political consultations and alliance-building well ahead of the 2027 elections. According to him, as far back as January 2024, he encouraged Obi to engage influential northern politicians such as Rabiu Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai as part of strategic preparations.
He noted that early planning is crucial in politics and suggested that delays in building alliances could affect electoral competitiveness. He added that his continued political engagement would depend on the existence of a clear long-term strategy.
Commenting on current political alignments, Datti referenced Obi’s growing association with Rabiu Kwankwaso but questioned the effectiveness of such a partnership, saying its success would only be determined over time.
He also criticised Obi’s handling of internal issues within the Labour Party, arguing that a candidate who secured the party’s ticket should have remained to resolve its challenges rather than distancing himself.
In a related development, Buba Galadima of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) disclosed that the party has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the southern region.
