Datti Baba-Ahmed Warns Opposition: “Don’t Play Tinubu’s Political Game” Over 2027 Coalition Moves

Former Labour Party (LP) vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has issued a strong warning to opposition coalition leaders in Nigeria, cautioning them against replicating President Bola Tinubu’s political strategy as they gear up for the 2027 general elections.

In an exclusive interview with ARISE NEWS, Baba-Ahmed expressed concern that the opposition’s recent adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a coalition platform could mirror the 2014 alliance that birthed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) — a move he described as playing into Tinubu’s hands.

“I support the coalition in principle. The objectives are right, the ideas are right — but this is Tinubu’s game. You don’t have to play it the way he did,” Baba-Ahmed said.

Baba-Ahmed Confirms Loyalty to Labour Party

Contrary to speculation, Baba-Ahmed made it clear that he has not left the Labour Party, despite ongoing conversations with coalition stakeholders. He described his political stance as strategic and cautious, noting that he is observing how events unfold before taking any definitive step.

He also emphasized that the Labour Party should not be sidelined, pointing to its massive voter support in the last election.

“This is a party that, by our count, secured over 10 million votes. It defeated both the APC and PDP — no matter what the courts said,” he added.

Call for Internal Democracy in 2027 Opposition Coalition

Baba-Ahmed stressed that internal democracy will be a key determinant of the opposition coalition’s success in 2027. He urged political leaders to ensure credible and transparent primary elections, warning that the quality of internal processes would directly reflect their commitment to good governance.

“The beginning of good governance is if you run good primaries,” he stated.

As Nigeria’s opposition parties intensify preparations for the 2027 presidential election, Baba-Ahmed’s caution serves as a timely reminder to build a coalition based on structure, credibility, and democratic values — not haste or imitation.