July 30, 2025 - Umar Farouk, the factional National Secretary of the Labour Party (LP), stated that Peter Obi could lose the chance to be the party’s presidential candidate in 2027 if he continues engaging with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a coalition partner. Farouk emphasized that the Labour Party’s presidential ticket for 2027 is open to competition and not reserved for anyone, including Obi.
He stressed that Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the party’s 2023 vice presidential candidate who recently declared his intention to contest the presidency if Obi does not run, is equally qualified to seek the nomination. Farouk warned that Obi’s ongoing political involvement with ADC without fully committing back to the Labour Party risks disqualification from the party’s presidential nomination process.
This statement reflects ongoing internal tensions within the Labour Party as Obi works within a coalition that includes ADC, while some party officials call for strict adherence to party loyalty.
In contrast, Peter Obi himself has consistently affirmed his commitment to the Labour Party and expressed intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, emphasizing unity within the coalition. Similarly, Datti Baba-Ahmed has publicly welcomed Obi to retain the Labour Party ticket irrespective of coalition dynamics.