The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has officially explained why former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) leader Rabiu Kwankwaso failed to join the party ahead of the 2027 general election. National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed disclosed during a Hausa political programme on DITV Kaduna that negotiations collapsed due to disagreements over the terms of affiliation. Both politicians had approached the PRP seeking a political alliance, and initial discussions had progressed to the point of proposing a committee to facilitate deeper talks. However, Baba-Ahmed revealed that the talks broke down when Obi and Kwankwaso insisted on being guaranteed the party’s presidential ticket without internal competition.
Baba-Ahmed emphasized that the PRP could not accommodate such demands, stating that the party does not operate under a system where candidates are handed tickets without going through proper internal processes. “They approached us, expressing their desire to join the PRP, but during our discussions, they presented certain conditions,” he said. A major point of contention was their insistence on being awarded the presidential ticket before officially becoming members. “Prior to joining, they indicated that they were presidential candidates, which implied they should be awarded the ticket. We responded by saying no, this is the PRP; we do not engage in that type of politics,” Baba-Ahmed remarked.
The PRP chairman stressed that both Obi and Kwankwaso must first formally join the party and follow its established protocols before seeking any elective office. He explained, “I informed them that they should first become members of the party. Once they have joined, they can then approach me, saying, ‘I am Obi and I wish to run for president,’ and ‘I am Kwankwaso and I aspire to be his running mate.’” Baba-Ahmed questioned the logic behind demanding a guaranteed ticket without competition, noting, “If you are indeed formidable contenders, then what is the basis for your apprehension regarding competition?”
He acknowledged the political influence and widespread support networks of both leaders but reiterated that the PRP would not compromise its constitution or democratic principles. “We were of the opinion that if anyone were to enter a room and observe Obi and Kwankwaso, they would conclude that strong contenders had arrived. Nevertheless, we cannot compromise our party’s regulations,” he stated. Baba-Ahmed also revealed that the camps of Obi and Kwankwaso had requested numerous party positions, citing the large number of supporters they planned to bring into the PRP. “They asked for numerous positions to be allocated to them, citing their large number of supporters. We informed them that this was not an issue; they should first join the party, and then we could convene to discuss further.”
The PRP’s stance underscores its commitment to internal democracy and structured party governance. As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve ahead of the 2027 elections, the party’s decision may influence how other political figures approach coalition-building and party affiliations in the coming months.
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