North Unlikely to Back Obi–Kwankwaso Ticket, Says Datti

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has expressed skepticism over the possibility of northern political support for a joint ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso in future elections.

Speaking on shifting opposition dynamics, Baba-Ahmed said regional considerations remain decisive in Nigeria’s electoral outcomes. He noted that while he avoids naming individuals in ongoing political discussions, his assessment is that northern alignment behind such a ticket is unlikely.

“It is very unlikely that the North will rally around OK. That is my personal opinion,” he said, adding that he maintains cordial relationships with key political actors.

He recounted a January 2024 meeting with Obi, where he advised broader engagement with influential northern figures, including Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai. According to him, early coalition-building is essential for electoral success.

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

Baba-Ahmed stressed the importance of long-term political planning, warning that a lack of early strategy could undermine future prospects. “If in 2024 you cannot plan for 2027, then I cannot continue to be with you,” he said.

He suggested that recent opposition alignments may have roots in earlier discussions but questioned their viability. He also pointed to inconsistencies in political alliances, asking why some actors shifted positions between the 2022 and 2023 election cycles.

Highlighting demographic changes, Baba-Ahmed said there is increasing demand for generational leadership but warned that internal contradictions within joint tickets could weaken that appeal. He raised concerns about imbalances in age, experience, and political influence within such arrangements.

On Kwankwaso’s political weight, he noted the former governor’s strong regional influence and ambition, questioning how leadership roles would be negotiated in any alliance.

He concluded that while opposition cooperation remains possible, entrenched voting patterns and internal party structures present significant obstacles. Consistency in political strategy and organization, he added, will be critical as parties prepare for future elections.