Northern dynamics may sink Obi–Kwankwaso ticket — Datti

The Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has expressed doubts that northern Nigeria will support a joint presidential ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso in future elections.

Speaking about possible opposition alliances, Datti said regional support remains very important in Nigerian politics.

He noted that, in his opinion, it is unlikely that the North will unite behind such a joint ticket, although he respects all the political figures involved.

He recalled meeting Peter Obi in January 2024, where he advised him to work closely with key northern figures like Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai.

According to Datti, he stressed the importance of planning early for future elections, especially 2027.

Datti suggested that current political alliances may have started from earlier discussions but questioned whether they would succeed.

He also raised concerns about changing political loyalties, asking why some politicians who did not support certain candidates in the past are now forming new alliances.

He pointed out that Nigerians are increasingly demanding younger leadership but warned that contradictions within a political ticket could create problems. He questioned how leadership roles would be decided in a team where strong personalities and ambitions exist.

Using Kwankwaso as an example, Datti described him as a powerful political figure with strong influence in his region, raising concerns about who would ultimately take the lead in such a partnership.

He concluded that while opposition unity is possible, past voting patterns and internal party issues could make it difficult.

He emphasized that consistency in political strategy and party structure is key as politicians prepare for future elections.