Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has expressed that neither he nor the party’s presidential candidate were surprised by Nigeria’s ongoing economic difficulties.
They had previously warned against the All Progressives Congress (APC) assuming power in 2023.
Addressing the inaugural meeting of the Labour Party’s Interim National Caretaker Committee in Abuja, Baba-Ahmed, representing Peter Obi, voiced optimism about the party’s prospects for the 2027 elections. He believes the Labour Party can surpass its 2023 performance by securing a majority in the National Assembly and winning the presidency.
Baba-Ahmed highlighted the party’s achievements, noting their efforts to gain 10 million votes through the Supreme Court, despite being officially credited with 6 million. He emphasized that the Labour Party’s rise was a grassroots phenomenon, driven by the support of the Nigerian people and the “Obedients” movement, which helped them achieve significant victories in court against two established parties.
Addressing concerns about party leadership, Baba-Ahmed clarified that Julius Abure’s departure was due to the completion of his tenure, not external pressure from governors. He urged Abure and his team to work together with the Caretaker Committee to rebuild the party.
Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairman of the Labour Party’s National Caretaker Committee, assured members of the committee’s dedication to revitalizing the party and offering a credible alternative to Nigerians. She called for collective sacrifices from both party members and supporters.
Representing Governor Alex Otti, Abia State Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu urged committee members to focus on the party’s growth and avoid actions that could be counterproductive. Senator Darlington Nwokocha, the committee’s Secretary, outlined their objectives, which include electing officers from the ward to the national level through effective sensitization, advocacy, and consensus-building.
The committee has begun its work by swearing in members and forming key subcommittees to advance its goals and mandate.
