Former Vice Presidential candidate and chieftain of the Labour Party (LP), Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has officially debunked reports claiming he has declared his intention to run for the Presidency in 2027.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja today, Friday, 9 January 2026, the educationist and politician described the viral reports as “misleading” and “premature,” emphasizing that his current focus remains on the internal stability of the Labour Party.
The denial comes after several support groups and social media accounts began circulating posters and slogans suggesting that Baba-Ahmed was preparing to lead a solo ticket or challenge his 2023 principal, Peter Obi, for the party’s nomination.
He stated that while he remains committed to the “Obidient” movement and the rescue of Nigeria, he has not made any formal move toward a 2027 bid.
“I never declared to contest the presidency. My focus, and that of the party leadership, is currently on the re-organization and sanitization of the Labour Party ahead of our national convention,” Baba-Ahmed clarified.
He reiterated his loyalty to the 2023 partnership, stating that any future political moves would be done in consultation with stakeholders and not through “baseless rumors.”
Datti’s clarification arrives during a period of intense restructuring within the LP. The party has been navigating a complex leadership transition following the exit of the Julius Abure era in late 2025.
Political analysts suggest that Datti’s denial is a strategic move to keep doors open for a broader coalition. With rumors of a merger between the LP, PDP, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) intensifying this month, a premature individual declaration could jeopardize delicate negotiations between Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
“2026 is the year of planning, not the year of posters. Datti knows that declaring now would only paint him as a disruptor to the coalition talks currently happening behind closed doors.” – Dr. Austin Nweke, Political Strategist.
Beyond politics, Datti noted that he is currently dedicated to his role as the Founder of Baze University, which recently secured a major research grant for AI development. He urged supporters to remain calm and wait for official communications from the party’s accredited channels.
