Why PRP talks with Obi, Kwankwaso broke down — Baba-Ahmed

The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has revealed why discussions aimed at bringing former presidential contenders Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso into the party failed.

Speculations had earlier suggested that Obi and Kwankwaso were considering leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join the PRP. However, both politicians eventually opted for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Speaking in an interview with DITV Kaduna on Wednesday, Baba-Ahmed confirmed that preliminary talks were held but ultimately broke down due to disagreements over conditions attached to their proposed defection.

According to Baba-Ahmed, a major sticking point was the insistence by Obi and Kwankwaso that they be guaranteed the party’s presidential ticket before formally joining.

“They came and said they wanted to join the PRP, but when we sat down and discussed with them, there were certain demands they made,” he said.

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He explained that the two politicians sought assurances that they would emerge as the party’s presidential flagbearer and running mate without going through internal party competition.

“Before they joined, they told us that they were the presidential candidates, meaning they should be given the ticket. We told them no, this is PRP; we do not practice that kind of politics,” Baba-Ahmed stated.

The PRP chairman stressed that the party upholds internal democracy and due process, insisting that all aspirants must subject themselves to competitive primaries.

“I told them: first come into the party. After joining, you can then tell me, ‘I am Obi, and I want to run for President,’ and ‘I am Kwankwaso, and I want to be his running mate.’ But for you to come even before a decision is made and ask us to guarantee you the ticket without opposition — if you are truly strong contenders, then why fear competition?” he queried.

Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), have both remained key figures in Nigeria’s evolving opposition landscape.

Their potential alignment under a smaller platform like the PRP had sparked speculation about a broader coalition ahead of future elections. However, Baba-Ahmed’s comments suggest that ideological and procedural differences hindered any formal merger.

Political analysts say the episode reflects ongoing negotiations and strategic repositioning among opposition figures seeking viable platforms capable of challenging dominant parties.

A Kaduna-based political analyst noted that smaller parties often face pressure when high-profile politicians seek entry under special conditions.

“Granting automatic tickets may strengthen short-term visibility, but it can undermine party structure and internal democracy. The PRP appears to have chosen institutional integrity over political expediency,” he said.

Another commentator added that Obi and Kwankwaso’s political stature may make them reluctant to enter open primaries where outcomes are uncertain.

Baba-Ahmed reiterated that the PRP remains committed to transparent processes and collective decision-making.

“Our party is not built around individuals. It is built around principles. Anyone who wants to lead under our platform must earn it through a credible process,” he maintained.