Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has revealed that his decision to run alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election was largely motivated by sympathy rather than shared political ideology.
Baba-Ahmed made the disclosure during an interview with Symfoni, a clip of which has been widely circulated online.
According to him, Obi had initially reached out to several prominent political figures in 2021 to serve as his running mate, but was turned down by all of them. He said this situation influenced his personal decision to step in.
He explained that his involvement was not driven by political alignment alone, but also by concern for Obi’s situation and the broader condition of the country.
“There is a lot of sympathy between me and Peter Obi. I felt for him. When he approached three major politicians, they all avoided him. I felt bad for him and for Nigeria,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed added that he considered his role in the ticket a voluntary contribution to national development rather than a permanent political alliance.
“I took it upon myself. I have always been a volunteer for the sake of Nigeria,” he stated.
The former senator, who recently left the Labour Party for the Peoples Redemption Party in May 2026, used the interview to clarify that his political decisions are independent and not controlled by Obi.
He stressed that his support for the former presidential candidate had limits and should not be mistaken for political dependency.
“With due respect, he does not own my politics. I am independent,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed also reflected on Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party, arguing that internal party challenges are not unique and should not justify defection. He insisted that political parties can only improve through internal resolution rather than abandonment.
He concluded by reaffirming his autonomy in political affairs, stating that his alignment with Obi in 2023 was situational and not a long-term political commitment.