JUST IN: Datti Rises to Reclaim LP. Unity, Warns Against Misguided Coalitions

In a renewed push to heal internal rifts and reposition the Labour Party (LP) for future electoral battles, former vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has embarked on a strategic reconciliation mission aimed at reuniting key stakeholders of the party, including its 2023 presidential flagbearer, Mr. Peter Obi.

Speaking in Abuja during the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting convened by the Julius Abure-led faction of the party, Datti made a strong case for party unity.

Datti urged members to look beyond factional divisions and focus on building a more formidable structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The Labour Party is not one to be abandoned,” Datti declared. “Our track record, our history, is both unprecedented and inspiring.”

Reflecting on the 2023 presidential election, Datti reiterated the Labour Party’s electoral strength.

He highlighted that over 10 million Nigerians initially voted for the LP before the figure was controversially revised to 6.1 million.

Datti described this as symptomatic of deeper systemic issues, pointing to “state capture” and political interference as major threats to Nigeria’s democracy.

According to him, these structural challenges have sown seeds of discord within political formations, including the LP.

Nevertheless, he insisted that only reconciliation and disciplined political strategy could reclaim the party’s momentum.

“I consider myself a loyal party man,” Datti said.

“I am here not to fan the flames of division, but to bring together differing perspectives and to strengthen our collective resolve.”

The former vice-presidential candidate also addressed recent reports about coalition talks and realignments within the opposition space.

Without mentioning specific political groupings, he took a subtle swipe at emerging movements like the African Democratic Congress-led coalition.

He cautioned LP members against jumping into alliances that do not reflect the party’s ideological values or grassroots-driven mission.

“In the past, coalitions have helped unseat governments, but we must ask ourselves what came after,” he noted.

“In 2015, Nigerians voted out a government only to usher in another era of disappointment. We must avoid repeating that mistake.”

He affirmed that his continued loyalty lies with the Labour Party and dismissed suggestions of defecting or entertaining other political offers.

“Yes, I have attended meetings where ideas of coalition were floated—because if your neighbours call you to discuss the safety of your home, you owe them your presence,” he said.

“But if that discussion drifts from the collective good, you have the right to walk away. And I have done just that. I remain firmly with Labour.”

Addressing the internal crisis within LP, especially the leadership tussle, Datti acknowledged the tension between the Abure-led executive and other factions such as the group aligned with Nenadi Usman.

However, he was quick to point out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) currently recognises Julius Abure as the legitimate National Chairman.

“This recognition is not for personal gain or ambition,” he clarified. “My role here is solely as a bridge-builder, without bias or bitterness.”

Datti also expressed confidence in Peter Obi’s continued commitment to the party, describing recent statements by the former Anambra governor as reassuring.

“From the recent remarks by my leader, His Excellency Peter Obi, it’s clear that he remains solidly in the Labour Party,” he said.

“This gives me great encouragement to proceed with the task of uniting our ranks.”

He vowed to actively reach out to all warring factions within the party and convene meaningful dialogues aimed at restoring mutual trust and a shared sense of purpose.

“We must sit together, understand each other better, and move forward as one team,” he declared.

As political realignments continue to shape the road to 2027, Datti Baba-Ahmed’s latest intervention signals a critical moment for the Labour Party.

Whether his reconciliatory push will bring lasting peace and clarity to the party remains to be seen, but for now, his message is clear: the time for healing and rebuilding is now.

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