The 2023 vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has addressed a range of issues from Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka’s recent comments on the presidential candidate of his party, Peter Obi.
He spoke on Friday during an interview with Arise TV.
Baba-Ahmed began by expressing his dismay at the manner in which Soyinka has been insulting Peter Obi and his supporters, known as ‘Obidients’.
He emphasized that Nobel laureates are usually respected globally and that Soyinka should follow suit by maintaining his dignity.
Baba-Ahmed defended Peter Obi, asserting that Obi’s movement represented a genuine and powerful force that had won the recent election before it was allegedly taken away.
He argued that it was not Obi’s responsibility to control the actions of his supporters but rather Soyinka’s duty to uphold mutual respect.
Transitioning to the Labour Party’s future, Baba-Ahmed expressed confidence in the party’s ability to contest and win future elections despite current internal conflicts.
He stressed that the party operates in special ways that are not always visible to the public but assured that they are prepared for the political battles ahead, particularly the 2027 elections.
He highlighted the unprecedented unity within the party, especially his support for a Christian Southeastern candidate despite being from the North.
Baba-Ahmed criticized Tinubu administration’s legitimacy and economic policies, claiming that the government had failed Nigerians. He emphasized the importance of democracy and questioned whether Nigerians are truly ready to defend their rights and civil liberties.
He called on Nigerians to take responsibility for their country and to not accept anything less than true democracy.
