Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has criticized Peter Obi following the latter’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Baba-Ahmed described Obi and other politicians as “political travellers” who were “gifted a presidential ticket.”

Making the remarks while declaring his presidential ambition, Baba-Ahmed reaffirmed his loyalty to the Labour Party. “I have not left Labour Party because Labour Party won a presidential election,” he said. “I will not leave Labour Party because of a coalition of disgruntled politicians who could not even challenge the 2023 constitutional breaches. I remain committed to its promise.”

Baba-Ahmed emphasized his independence and track record, stating, “I am my own boss. I’m not following anybody’s trajectory. I’m not stepping into anybody’s shoes.” He challenged other presidential aspirants to identify one among them who has never been in a ruling party, asserting, “I am that one. I have never been in a ruling party. The records are there for you to see.”

Recounting his early political interactions, Baba-Ahmed claimed he aspired to the presidency before Peter Obi, recalling a 2018 encounter at the PDP primaries in Port Harcourt where he sought Obi’s vote.

He also outlined his economic promises, pledging that by June 2027, public servants—including security personnel and teachers—would earn at least four times their current salaries. “Nigeria can afford it,” he said.

On Labour Party achievements, Baba-Ahmed highlighted the party’s record amid financial and systemic challenges: “Labour Party produced a state governor, eight senators, and about 40 members of the House of Representatives. We confront our successes even in an era of perfected electoral fraud.”

He concluded by urging supporters to focus on facts amidst online hostility, stating, “In this defection case, neither my humble self nor the Labour Party are the aggressors. A group of political travellers welcomed in 2022 with a presidential ticket continued with their journey.”