“Emulate Atiku, call your supporters to order” — Baba-Ahmed tells Peter Obi

A former Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has advised the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to rein in his supporters and adopt a more measured political approach ahead of the 2027 general election.

Baba-Ahmed gave the advice on Thursday during an appearance on *The Morning Show* on Arise Television. He warned that the actions of some Obi supporters, particularly persistent attacks and insults against critics and rivals, could damage Obi’s chances within the democratic process.

He acknowledged Obi’s frequent travels across the country, describing him as one of the most travelled politicians in recent times. Baba-Ahmed said Obi’s efforts to stay connected with grassroots supporters were positive but stressed that the political terrain requires greater strategic discipline.

According to him, Obi is now contending with experienced and determined politicians who are equally focused on securing party tickets and political influence.

Baba-Ahmed urged Obi to follow the example of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar by publicly appealing to his supporters to remain calm and avoid confrontational rhetoric.

He said Atiku’s decision to caution his supporters against trading insults was appropriate and added that Obi needed to take similar steps, even more firmly.

Baba-Ahmed also noted that party politics is driven by negotiations, alliances, and consensus among key political figures. He said winning a party ticket is rarely straightforward and often depends on securing broad internal support, adding that while party tickets are open for contest, the process is shaped by complex political realities.