Former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party Nigeria, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has dismissed widespread speculation suggesting that former Anambra State governor Peter Obi has left the party.
The clarification came shortly after a gathering of the party’s leadership during a meeting of its Labour Party National Executive Council held in Abuja. Representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission were also present during the session.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Baba-Ahmed insisted that there has been no official departure by Obi from the political platform. According to Gossip News Now reports that the party leadership maintains that the former presidential candidate remains an active member.
While responding to rumours about Obi’s alleged exit, Baba-Ahmed used a lighthearted remark to emphasize the continued relationship between the politician and the party, noting that he would gladly make room for Obi if he had attended the meeting.
Beyond the question of party membership, the former vice-presidential candidate also highlighted what he described as a significant moment for the party: the participation of the electoral commission at the NEC gathering.
He explained that the presence of INEC officials signified procedural compliance and reinforced the legitimacy of the meeting. According to him, the party leadership remains committed to operating strictly within the framework of the law.
Baba-Ahmed also addressed internal developments within the party, acknowledging that the Labour Party has faced difficult periods but insisting that it has grown stronger despite those challenges. He suggested that the meeting represented another step toward rebuilding unity among party members.
Meanwhile, he used the opportunity to criticize the current federal administration’s handling of security challenges across the country. In his view, recent incidents highlight deeper governance issues that require urgent attention.
The politician also revisited the party’s economic and social policies, particularly its focus on workers’ welfare. He reiterated that the Labour Party continues to prioritize fair wages and improved living conditions for Nigerian workers.
The NEC meeting itself was chaired by Julius Abure, whose leadership has been central to internal discussions within the party since the disputed national convention that took place in Nnewi in 2024.
Commentary and Analysis
The reaffirmation of Peter Obi’s membership reflects ongoing efforts by the Labour Party to maintain stability after months of internal disagreements. Speculation about potential defections has been common in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly when parties experience leadership disputes.
By publicly confirming Obi’s continued association with the party, Baba-Ahmed appears to be attempting to reassure supporters and strengthen confidence within the party’s base.
The broader political implication is significant, especially as discussions about future alliances and strategies ahead of the 2027 elections continue to intensify across Nigeria’s opposition parties.
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