By Erewunmi Peace

Former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the platform of the Labour Party (LP).

Baba-Ahmed made the declaration at a gathering of party members and supporters at the Labour Party national secretariat in Abuja, stating that his decision is driven by a commitment to national development, good governance, and economic reform.

His declaration comes one week after former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, exited the Labour Party for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that has created a leadership gap within the party ahead of the next general election.

Addressing speculation surrounding the timing of his announcement, Baba-Ahmed clarified that his presidential ambition did not arise as a reaction to Obi’s defection, noting that his interest in leading the country predates recent political realignments.

“I am not following anyone’s political trajectory,” he said, adding that Nigeria requires leadership anchored on competence, integrity, and inclusive governance.

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed was the running mate to Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election, where the Labour Party recorded its strongest national performance since inception, gaining significant youth and urban support across the country.

Political analysts view his declaration as an early move to reposition the Labour Party ahead of 2027, especially as the party works to consolidate its structure following internal changes and high-profile exits.

As preparations for the next election cycle begin to take shape, Baba-Ahmed’s announcement signals the start of renewed political activity within the Labour Party and sets the stage for internal consultations, alliances, and primaries in the coming months.