2027: Datti Baba-Ahmed quits Labour Party, joins PRP

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the 2023 vice-presidential running mate to Peter Obi, has officially announced his exit from the Labour Party, declaring his move to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a televised interview, Baba-Ahmed revealed that his resignation from the Labour Party took effect “midnight,” marking a decisive end to his association with the party that propelled him to national prominence during the 2023 elections.

He explained that his decision was driven by what he described as a departure from the party’s founding ideals, noting that the Labour Party no longer aligns with his political vision and principles.

“What Labour Party stood for then is no longer what it is today,” he said, adding that the ruling APC has allegedly focused on weakening opposition parties.

He dismissed ongoing opposition coalition efforts, including the widely discussed ADC arrangement and the “Ibadan Declaration,” describing them as politically unrealistic.

“You got everything wrong about ADC… it will not happen,” he said, questioning the ability of opposition figures to unite under a single presidential platform.

Baba-Ahmed also argued that the real political threat to the APC lies within the PRP, especially with the rising profile of Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, whom he described as principled and reform-driven.

He praised his elder brother’s credentials and integrity, noting his academic background and resignation from public office over principles.

According to him, the APC should be more concerned about credible alternatives emerging from structured ideological platforms rather than loose coalitions.

He urged capable Nigerians to participate actively in politics, warning that staying out of the system while criticising it only worsens governance failures.

“If you are a good Nigerian and you refuse to enter politics, you are as bad as those misleading Nigeria,” he said.

Despite his political shifts, Baba-Ahmed maintained that he is not desperate for office, recalling his early rise in politics, including becoming a member of the House of Representatives at 33 and Senator at 41.

He added that his political vision aligns more with ideology than ambition, stressing that the PRP’s 75-year history offers a stronger foundation for national transformation.