Baba-Ahmed: Obi has not defected to ADC

Datti Baba-Ahmed, the vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, has dismissed claims that Peter Obi has defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the former Anambra State governor merely aligned with an opposition coalition.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Friday, Baba-Ahmed said Obi’s recent remarks did not amount to a formal defection from the Labour Party, urging Nigerians to carefully review what was actually said.

“It will be good if everyone listens to Peter Obi’s comments at Enugu. He mentioned joining the coalition. I don’t believe I heard him say defection to the ADC,” Baba-Ahmed said.

“I did not hear that; maybe I missed it, but please find out if he said joining the coalition or the ADC.”

Baba-Ahmed stressed that beyond public statements, the legal and procedural requirements for defection must be followed, calling on the Labour Party leadership to clarify Obi’s status.

“It is also good if you find out from Labour Party leadership if His Excellency Peter Obi has submitted a resignation letter and returned his card as required by law,” he said.

His comments come amid lingering debate following Obi’s appearance at a political event in Enugu in December 2025, where he publicly associated himself with the ADC-led coalition and invited members of other opposition parties to join what he described as a political family committed to “rescuing” Nigeria from poor leadership.

Despite the political uncertainty, Baba-Ahmed said his relationship with Obi remains intact, emphasising that the former presidential candidate would still be welcomed in the Labour Party if circumstances change.

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“I also said if Peter Obi does not get the ticket there in ADC, he is more than welcome back to the Labour Party,” he said.

“I will stand there, and nobody will do anything bad to Peter Obi. It is better for him to come back than for him to do another type of agenda.”

On his own political future, Baba-Ahmed said he remains open to contesting the presidency but clarified that he has not made any formal declaration.

“Categorically yes,” he said when asked if he intends to run.

“I never declared to contest for presidency; I simply reiterated my membership in the Labour Party, even though there could be a possibility for that happening.”

He added that any such move would depend on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable and the internal processes of the Labour Party.

Baba-Ahmed also used the opportunity to call on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step aside ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that Nigeria’s opposition space requires fresh leadership and direction.