The vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election , Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has offered a detailed reflection on Nigeria’s 2023 general election dynamics, expressing doubt over whether northern political forces will unite behind key opposition figures ahead of future polls.
Speaking on the evolving opposition realignments, Ahmed said he deliberately avoids mentioning individual names in political discussions at this stage but maintained that regional alignment remains a critical factor in determining electoral outcomes.
“It is very unlikely that the North will rally around OK. That is my personal opinion,” he said, while stressing that he maintains respect and cordial relationships with all major political actors involved.
He recalled a personal encounter with former presidential candidate, Peter Obi in January 2024 at a meeting in John Wilson Hotel, where he reportedly advised him on broader political strategy.
“At that time, I told him there are key figures like Kwankwaso and El-Rufai. I suggested he should engage them,” he said.
He further claimed he had encouraged early strategic planning, arguing that political success requires long-term foresight beyond immediate electoral cycles.
“If in 2024 you cannot plan for 2027, then I cannot continue to be with you,” he said.
He noted that current alignments, including emerging cooperation among opposition figures, may have originated from earlier strategic discussions, although he questioned whether such arrangements would succeed in practice.
He also raised concerns about shifting alliances in Nigerian politics, asking why some political actors did not support certain candidates in earlier election cycles but are now aligning differently.
“What changed between 2022 and 2023?” he asked, suggesting inconsistency in political alliances.
He pointed to Nigeria’s evolving demographics, noting a growing demand for a new generation of leadership, but warned that internal contradictions within political tickets could undermine such aspirations.
“You are looking for new blood, a new generation, yet you may have a vice-presidential figure who is older in age, education, political profile, and experience,” he said.
He added that regional influence and political dominance also play a critical role in determining leadership balance within any proposed ticket.
Referring to Kwankwaso, he said, “The local government is almost his state, the state is almost his region. And this is someone with strong ambition and temperament, who, then, will actually be the president?” he asked.
According to him, while opposition collaboration is theoretically possible, historical voting patterns and internal party dynamics make such alliances difficult to sustain.
He concluded by noting that consistency in party structure and political strategy remains critical, even as opposition figures continue to reposition ahead of future elections.
