In a recent interview on Symfoni TV, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed reflected on his political relationship with Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and his past recommendation that Obi should work with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
During the discussion, Baba-Ahmed offered fresh insights into his thinking at the time and how subsequent political developments influenced his perspective.
Speaking about the events leading up to the 2023 election and the political calculations surrounding opposition cooperation, Baba-Ahmed acknowledged that his earlier position was based on what he believed would strengthen efforts to build a formidable political alternative.
He explained that he had encouraged greater collaboration among opposition figures in the interest of national development and electoral competitiveness.
During the interview, Baba-Ahmed stated, “When I advised Obi to work with Kwankwaso, I did not fully understand their composition.”
He made the remark while discussing his assessment of the personalities, political interests, and dynamics that shaped relationships among key opposition leaders.
According to Baba-Ahmed, developments that unfolded after his initial recommendation provided him with a clearer understanding of the challenges involved in bringing different political actors together.
He suggested that political alliances require more than shared objectives and must also be built on mutual understanding, trust, and a willingness to resolve differences.
The former senator noted that democratic politics often involves complex interactions between individuals, parties, and interest groups.
He argued that leaders must carefully evaluate the long-term implications of political partnerships rather than focusing solely on short-term electoral gains.
Baba-Ahmed also emphasized that his comments were not intended as a personal attack on any of the individuals involved. Instead, he described them as reflections on lessons learned from political engagements and the realities of coalition-building within Nigeria's evolving democratic environment.
He concluded by stressing the importance of internal party stability, dialogue, and principled leadership in strengthening Nigeria's political system.
While acknowledging past disagreements and challenges, Baba-Ahmed maintained that political actors must continue working toward solutions that advance democracy and improve governance for the benefit of the country.
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