Former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has expressed doubt that northern political forces will support a possible joint presidential ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 elections.
Datti made this known while reflecting on Nigeria’s political landscape after the 2023 elections and the ongoing efforts by opposition figures to form alliances that could challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking during a recent engagement, Datti said regional considerations remain a key factor in Nigerian politics, especially when it comes to voting patterns in the North. He noted that while opposition collaboration is possible, it may not easily translate into widespread support across all regions.
“It is very unlikely that the North will rally around OK. That is my personal opinion,” he said, referring to a potential Obi–Kwankwaso ticket.
Nigeria’s political system has long been influenced by regional balance, with parties often trying to combine candidates from the North and South in order to appeal to a wider voter base. This arrangement is seen as important in a country with diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.
Datti, who was Obi’s running mate under the Labour Party in 2023, said he remains respectful of all political actors but prefers not to focus on individuals at this stage. However, his comments highlight growing uncertainty around the strength of opposition alliances as preparations for 2027 begin.
He also revealed that he had earlier advised Obi to broaden his political consultations and engage other key figures, including former Kano State governor Kwankwaso and ex-Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai.
According to him, the advice was given during a meeting in January 2024 at the John Wilson Hotel, where he stressed the importance of early planning and coalition building.
“At that time, I told him there are key figures like Kwankwaso and El-Rufai. I suggested he should engage them,” Datti said.
He added that successful political campaigns require long-term strategy and clear direction, rather than last-minute arrangements.
“If in 2024 you cannot plan for 2027, then I cannot continue to be with you,” he said, pointing to the need for early preparation in Nigeria’s competitive political environment.
In recent months, there have been increasing discussions about possible alliances among opposition leaders. These talks gained momentum after the 2023 elections, where the opposition vote was largely split among different parties, allowing the APC to retain power at the federal level.
Obi, who ran on the platform of the Labour Party, secured significant support, especially among young voters and in urban areas. Kwankwaso, on the other hand, maintained strong backing in Kano State and parts of the North through his political movement.
He questioned the consistency of political alliances in Nigeria, noting that some politicians who did not support certain candidates in the past are now forming new partnerships.
“What changed between 2022 and 2023?” he asked, raising concerns about shifting loyalties and political calculations.
Datti also spoke about the growing demand among Nigerians, particularly young people, for a new generation of leadership. Since the 2023 elections, there has been increased political awareness among youths, many of whom are calling for reforms and better governance.
However, he warned that internal contradictions within political tickets could weaken such efforts. According to him, a mismatch in experience, influence, or ambition between candidates could create tension within an administration.
“You are looking for new blood, a new generation, yet you may have a vice-presidential figure who is older in age, education, political profile, and experience,” he said.
He further pointed to the strong political influence of Kwankwaso in Kano and surrounding areas, suggesting that balancing power within a joint ticket could be a challenge.
“The local government is almost his state, the state is almost his region. And this is someone with strong ambition and temperament. Who, then, will actually be the president?” he asked.
Since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999, major elections have often been influenced by alliances between political leaders and blocs. However, these alliances are sometimes short-lived due to disagreements over power sharing and strategy.
Datti highlighted that consistency in political planning and party structure is key to building a strong opposition. He warned that without clear direction, alliances formed for electoral purposes may not last.
“Consistency is very important,” he said, noting that political actors must remain focused if they hope to achieve long-term success.
As discussions about 2027 continue, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether opposition parties can overcome their differences and present a united front.
For now, Datti’s remarks have added to the ongoing debate about the future of opposition politics in the country. While there is growing interest in coalition building, questions remain about whether such alliances can overcome regional divides and internal challenges.
With more than a year already gone since the 2023 elections, political activities are gradually picking up again. Key players are beginning to reposition themselves, holding meetings and exploring possible partnerships.
However, as Datti’s comments suggest, building a successful alliance in Nigeria requires more than just bringing leaders together. It also demands trust, clear planning, and the ability to manage competing interests.
As the road to 2027 unfolds, the issue of regional support, especially from the North, is expected to remain a major factor in determining which candidates emerge and how voters respond.
For now, the debate continues, with many hoping that whatever alliances are formed will focus not just on winning elections, but also on addressing the country’s pressing challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, and unemployment.