They Thought I Would Follow Obi, Now, Between Me And Obi, There’s A Great Deal Of Sympathy -Datti Baba -Ahmed

According to a report by Punch Newspaper on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed has revealed that his decision to accept the party’s vice-presidential ticket ahead of the 2023 presidential election was motivated by sympathy for Peter Obi and concern over the condition of Nigeria, rather than political ideology or personal ambition.

Baba-Ahmed made the disclosure during an interview with media platform Symfoni, according to a video of the conversation that circulated widely on Wednesday.

During the interview, he reflected on the circumstances that led to his emergence as Obi’s running mate in the lead-up to the presidential election.

The former senator explained that before approaching him, Obi had sought the partnership of three other notable politicians.

According to Baba-Ahmed, those individuals declined the opportunity to join the Labour Party presidential ticket, leaving Obi in search of a suitable running mate.

He stated that after learning about the situation, he felt compelled to step forward because of his personal sympathy for Obi and his concern about the challenges facing the country.

Baba-Ahmed noted that his decision was driven by a desire to contribute to national development at a critical period in Nigeria’s political history.

According to him, the decision was not based on any expectation of political gain but on what he described as a voluntary commitment to the nation.

He said he chose to support the Labour Party presidential candidate because he believed the moment required individuals who were willing to make sacrifices for the country.

Baba-Ahmed further indicated that many people misunderstood the nature of his relationship with Obi and the reasons behind his acceptance of the vice-presidential position.

He maintained that there was a strong sense of empathy that influenced his decision, adding that his support for Obi was rooted in personal conviction and concern for the nation’s future.

“They thought I would follow Peter Obi. Now, people don’t understand that between me and Obi, there’s a great deal of sympathy. I have sympathy for him,” Baba-Ahmed said…....