Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 vice presidential candidate, has reignited political discourse with his recent comments on the 2027 presidential race and potential opposition realignments.
In a widely shared video, Datti stated that fairness and equity demand that Nigeria’s presidency rotate to the South in 2027. “The default position of thinking is that the presidency should be from the South,” he said, referencing Nigeria’s zoning tradition.
Datti also expressed concern over speculation that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may contest under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). “So if Atiku takes the ADC ticket, how will Amaechi and Peter Obi react?” he asked, pointing to prominent southern politicians—Rotimi Amaechi and Peter Obi.
Reaffirming his support for Obi as a leading presidential candidate, Datti ruled out any possibility of Obi accepting a subordinate role. “I think Peter Obi shouldn’t be a VP,” he declared.
His remarks are being interpreted as a caution to opposition figures against sidelining the South and a signal that the Labour Party intends to take a leadership role in any future coalition.
With the 2027 race on the horizon, Datti’s comments underscore growing tensions over zoning, alliances, and leadership within Nigeria’s opposition bloc.
