Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed has reaffirmed his commitment to the 2023 presidential election ticket with Peter Obi, stating he has no regrets about the decision and emphasizing its importance in promoting unity, forgiveness, and trust across Nigeria. Speaking at the second edition of the Bala AbdulKadir Mohammed Colloquium in Bauchi on Monday, Baba-Ahmed delivered a keynote address that highlighted the need for moral leadership and national cohesion during a time of political uncertainty.
The event was held at the Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre to mark the 68th birthday of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. During his speech, Baba-Ahmed reflected on the significance of his role as Obi’s running mate, saying the choice was rooted in a deep belief that Nigeria needed leaders who could rise above partisan divides and prioritize the nation’s democratic future. He stated, “Up till today, I have no regrets supporting Peter Obi. Fundamental questions were answered. He is a Nigerian, he is in the constitutional line to sit. That is the doctrine.”
Baba-Ahmed drew parallels between his own stance and historical examples of civic duty, referencing Nora’s stand for the doctrine of necessity when people’s rights were under threat. He said his participation in the 2023 election was an act of patriotism aimed at demonstrating forgiveness and mutual trust among Nigerians. He stressed that leaders must be appreciated not just for their achievements, but for the values they embody and promote. “There is a duty in appreciating leaders,” he said. “Why you appreciate leaders is not to massage their ego. What is even more important is to educate others to appreciate, understand, see, and imbibe those single qualities. Nigeria is in need of leaders.”
He also raised concerns about the weakening separation of powers in Nigeria’s democracy, noting that the National Assembly has struggled to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities due to executive overreach. Baba-Ahmed urged citizens to demand accountability and a system that truly serves the people rather than a few elites. “Why can’t the Nigerian people unite? Why can’t the Nigerian people work together? Why can’t the Nigerian people not stand for themselves, stand for themselves, fight for themselves?” he asked passionately.
Baba-Ahmed condemned the growing culture of oppression in the country, warning that accepting injustice had become ingrained in the national psyche. “We detest oppression. We detest cheating. We hate bullying. We need leaders that will stop it. Because now, oppression is getting into the DNA of Nigeria. Accepting oppression is getting into the DNA of Nigerian people.” He called on Nigerians to support leaders who are willing to speak truth to power, even at personal cost, and to foster a society where justice and dignity are upheld.
As Nigeria continues to navigate political and social challenges, Baba-Ahmed’s message underscores the enduring need for principled leadership and active citizen engagement in shaping the nation’s future.
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