Key Takeaways
- Datti Baba-Ahmed, former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, believes only God can prevent President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027.
- He lauded President Tinubu's 16-year dedication to meticulously building political structures and forging strategic alliances.
- Baba-Ahmed described Tinubu's emergence as president in 2023 as an 'exceptional political achievement,' acknowledging his unique political prowess.
- He claims President Tinubu exerts vast influence over Nigeria's political landscape, potentially frustrating opposition unity and even influencing their internal leadership.
- His assessment underscores the significant challenge facing opposition parties aiming to unseat the incumbent in the next presidential election.
In a candid assessment of Nigeria's political landscape, Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former vice-presidential candidate for the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, has delivered a stark prediction regarding the 2027 presidential race. Speaking during an interview with Trust TV, Baba-Ahmed asserted that President Bola Tinubu's political machinery and influence are so formidable that 'only God Almighty' could prevent his victory in the next general election.
Baba-Ahmed, Peter Obi's running mate in 2023, offered a critical yet acknowledging perspective on President Tinubu's political acumen. Despite policy disagreements, he recognized Tinubu's unparalleled ability to cultivate robust political structures and forge enduring alliances. He highlighted Tinubu's strategic, long-term approach, noting his 16-year dedication to building his base and orchestrating the 2015 alliance that brought former President Muhammadu Buhari to power.
“Even though I don't entirely agree with him, he did what others were not able to do. He organised for 16 years, not just plan,” Baba-Ahmed stated, emphasizing Tinubu's deep organizational efforts. “He organised for 16 years against all odds, he brought in Buhari from retirement. Buhari is from across the Niger. He stood for that.” This underscores Tinubu's reputation as a master strategist, uniting disparate political forces for improbable electoral outcomes.
Baba-Ahmed described Tinubu's 2023 emergence as an 'exceptional political achievement,' suggesting the incumbent succeeded where others faltered. He contrasted Tinubu's proactive strategy with figures like Atiku Abubakar, implying Abubakar might have faced internal resistance in pursuing unconventional political moves.
The former LP candidate claimed President Tinubu wields immense influence across Nigeria's political spectrum. He suggested this could frustrate opposition efforts to form a united front for 2027. “He (Tinubu) will not allow them (opposition) to come together. He probably actually chooses candidates in the opposition parties. He installs leadership in those political parties. He does what you and I cannot imagine,” Baba-Ahmed alleged, depicting a deeply entrenched political operator.
Reinforcing his assertion, Baba-Ahmed concluded, “If Tinubu says something will happen, only God Almighty can stop it. If he says to be declared in 2027, only God Almighty can stop it.” Asked if his assessment was praise or criticism, he left it open, stating, “It is anybody's business to interpret it anyhow. I only state the facts. And the fact is Nigeria now belongs to Tinubu.” This bold declaration offers significant insight into the perceived strength of the current political establishment.
Why This Matters
Datti Baba-Ahmed's candid remarks offer a crucial, albeit controversial, perspective on President Bola Tinubu's formidable political landscape. His assessment, from a leading opposition voice, highlights significant challenges for any bloc hoping to contest the 2027 presidential election, underscoring the need for unprecedented unity and strategy from opposition parties to present a credible alternative.