Former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has criticised his erstwhile running mate, Peter Obi, over his recent political moves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Baba-Ahmed, in an interview circulated on X on Monday, faulted Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party, arguing that the former Anambra State governor should have remained to address internal challenges within the party.
He warned that leadership requires resilience, stressing that walking away from crises could undermine credibility in national politics.
“As much as I disagree with the ruling party’s policies, anyone who benefited from a platform should stay to fix its problems, no matter how difficult,” he said.
The former lawmaker further questioned Obi’s readiness for the 2027 presidential race, insisting that only individuals prepared to confront political challenges head-on should aspire to lead.
“If you are not ready to fight, then you should stay out of the contest,” he added.
Baba-Ahmed also expressed doubts over the chances of a potential alliance involving Obi and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, particularly in securing widespread support in the northern region.
The remarks come amid ongoing political realignments following the defection of Obi and Kwankwaso from the African Democratic Congress to the Nigerian Democratic Congress.
Obi had previously contested the 2023 presidential election on the Labour Party platform, with Baba-Ahmed as his running mate.
The development highlights growing divisions within opposition ranks as political actors reposition ahead of the next electoral cycle.
