Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has sparked fresh political debate after declaring that none of the major politicians challenging President Bola Tinubu can deliver the change Nigerians desire.
Datti specifically included former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi among those he said could not transform the country.
Datti Criticises Tinubu’s Opponents
The former senator argued that defeating Tinubu in the 2027 election would require more than simply presenting an alternative candidate.
According to him, the opposition must demonstrate the political capacity and determination necessary to fundamentally change Nigeria.
His comments are notable because Datti was Peter Obi’s running mate during the 2023 presidential election.
Obi Named Among Challengers
Datti’s assessment places him at odds with Obi’s current presidential campaign.
Obi is seeking the presidency under the NDC and has been presenting proposals focused on economic productivity, security, healthcare, education and employment.
The former Anambra governor has argued that Nigerians are not demanding extraordinary things from government, but basic services and effective leadership.
2027 Opposition Landscape
The opposition field has become increasingly crowded ahead of the 2027 election.
Atiku Abubakar is contesting under the ADC, while Obi is seeking the presidency on the NDC platform. Other political figures have also expressed interest in challenging Tinubu.
The opposition has continued to debate whether a united political structure is necessary to defeat the incumbent.
Datti’s Position
Datti’s latest statement adds another layer to that debate.
While he has previously spoken about the difficulties involved in defeating Tinubu, he has also criticised what he regards as weaknesses within opposition politics.
His comments are likely to attract further reactions as the 2027 contest develops.