Datti Baba Ahmed highlights the need for unity and selflessness within Nigeria’s opposition to effectively counter President Tinubu’s influence.
Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba Ahmed, has stressed that Nigeria’s opposition coalition must be prepared to take unconventional steps if it hopes to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s hold on power in the 2027 elections.
His comments followed the recent adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by opposition leaders, who announced it on Wednesday as the preferred platform for the next presidential contest.
This political alliance features major players such as former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, ex-transport minister Rotimi Amaechi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai.
In a conversation with Trust TV, he described Tinubu as a political tactician who patiently built his path to the presidency over a period of 16 years.
However, he expressed concern about whether the opposition’s top figures are genuinely committed to prioritizing national interest ahead of their personal political goals.
I haven’t yet seen anyone within this alliance capable of planning strategically for 16 years. With due respect to Atiku, this would mark his seventh attempt,” he remarked.
But tell me: is there anyone else ready to step aside and fully back another candidate? So far, it seems everyone is focused solely on their individual ambitions.
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He pointed out that Tinubu succeeded by being deliberate and patient, investing years in supporting other candidates before eventually taking the seat himself.
“He remained determined for 16 years before securing victory in 2023,” he said.
The former vice-presidential hopeful explained how Tinubu’s calculated moves over the years positioned him for success.
“Tinubu handed Atiku the ACN in 2007, offered it to Ribadu in 2011, supported Buhari in 2015, and patiently waited until 2023. Defeating someone with this kind of strategy will require going beyond conventional politics.”
He emphasized that without extraordinary unity and sacrifices, the opposition stands little chance.
“If this coalition assumes it’s politics as usual, it won’t work. There’s a need to abandon personal interests for the good of the country. Less talk, more tangible actions , because talk alone won’t deliver results.
