Umar Farouk Ibrahim, a factional National Secretary of the Labour Party (LP), has cautioned that former presidential candidate Peter Obi could be disqualified from contesting the 2027 election under the party’s banner if he continues to align himself with rival political platforms.
In a recent interview with Trust TV, Ibrahim stressed that no aspirant holds an automatic claim to the LP’s presidential ticket, insisting that any candidate must demonstrate full commitment to the party’s ideals and structure.
“Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed is just as qualified to seek the presidency as Peter Obi,” Ibrahim said, referencing Obi’s 2023 running mate. “But if they do not return fully to the party, they risk forfeiting that opportunity. You cannot be aligned with other political parties and expect to have one foot in Labour. That could lead to disqualification from the start.”
Reiterating the importance of party loyalty, Ibrahim identified Baba-Ahmed as a credible option for the LP’s presidential ticket if Obi is found ineligible. He described Baba-Ahmed as a competent and disciplined politician who understands the responsibilities that come with party alignment.
“He has displayed the kind of capacity and maturity expected from a true politician,” Ibrahim noted. “Now, it’s his responsibility to engage his principal and advise him on the right course of action for the party.”
Despite the tensions, Ibrahim admitted that Baba-Ahmed would likely defer to Obi should the latter decide to contest again. However, he added that if both men seek the ticket, the party would ensure a level playing field.
The Labour Party is currently entangled in a protracted leadership dispute, with two rival factions led by Julius Abure and Usman Nenadi. Ibrahim belongs to the Abure-led faction, while Obi has shown allegiance to Nenadi’s camp.
Controversy within the party has intensified following Obi’s recent involvement in a coalition formed by opposition groups under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Although Obi has insisted that he remains a loyal member of the Labour Party, his role in the ADC-led alliance has triggered speculation about his 2027 ambitions and party loyalty.
On July 11, Obi defended the coalition initiative, describing it as an effort to forge a credible political alternative to the ruling establishment. “We are working to build a stronger political force that can truly represent the interests of Nigerians,” he said.
In a related development, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed recently met with members of the Abure-led faction and called for reconciliation. He affirmed the enduring relevance of the Labour Party and urged members to remain united.
“The Labour Party is not a party to walk away from,” he said.
