ADC Coalition Deceiving Nigerians, Says Datti Ahmed

Former Labour Party (LP) vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has criticized the opposition coalition recently formed under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing its promoters of misleading Nigerians with unfounded claims of being able to rescue the country.

Baba-Ahmed, who was Peter Obi’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election, made the remarks during a television interview.

“They are deceiving us,” he said, taking aim at the coalition, which includes prominent political figures such as former Senate President David Mark, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Osun governor Rauf Aregbesola.

While Peter Obi has signaled his interest in contesting the 2027 presidential election and has been seen engaging with members of the coalition, Baba-Ahmed insisted he would prefer Obi to remain in the Labour Party and lead its campaign.

“I’m in the Labour Party. I’m a Peter Obi man. I still want Peter Obi to come back to the Labour Party and contest the 2027 election,” he stated.

When asked whether he would again serve as Obi’s running mate, Baba-Ahmed said: “If Nigeria is still around and there is an electoral system to follow, my love for Nigeria is undying, and I would appropriately associate with the group and individuals that are like-minded to restore Nigeria.”

He also revealed that there are only two individuals he would consider deputising, with Obi being the one he openly supports. “The first one has not said anything. The second one is Peter Obi. I’m always with Peter Obi until he decides not to,” he added.

Baba-Ahmed and Obi contested the 2023 election on the Labour Party platform, ultimately finishing third behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).