SNOW TV NEWS DESK
Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has warned supporters of Peter Obi against attacking him over his comments that northern voters are unlikely to support a proposed Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential ticket featuring Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Baba-Ahmed made the remarks during an interview with Symfoni TV, where he maintained that lingering controversies from the 2023 presidential campaign could affect Obi’s acceptance in northern Nigeria.
According to him, his position is based on his personal experience as Obi’s running mate during the 2023 election, particularly the challenges the campaign encountered while trying to win northern support.
He recalled allegations that Obi’s administration in Anambra State had required northerners to carry identity cards, the reported demolition of a mosque in the state, and a leaked audio recording in which Obi was heard repeatedly responding, “Yes, Daddy,” during a conversation with Bishop David Oyedepo.
Baba-Ahmed said he personally worked to address these controversies and rebuild confidence in Obi across northern communities.
He claimed to have facilitated Obi’s visits to Borno, Kano, Zaria, and the Sokoto Caliphate to promote his presidential ambition and counter negative perceptions.
The former vice-presidential candidate also questioned how Kwankwaso would defend Obi in Kano, considering his previous criticism of the alleged treatment of northerners in Anambra State.
Baba-Ahmed insisted that these issues could remain obstacles to Obi’s political appeal in the region.
He also cautioned Obi’s supporters, popularly known as Obidients, against attacking him because of his position, warning that he had more damaging information to disclose.
“I have more damaging things to say,” he declared, urging the supporters not to turn their criticism against him.
SNOW TV EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
Baba-Ahmed’s comments highlight the continuing political challenges surrounding Peter Obi’s efforts to build a broader national coalition, particularly in northern Nigeria.
His experience as Obi’s former running mate gives his observations political relevance, although his assessment of northern voters should not be treated as the position of the entire region. Northern Nigeria is politically diverse, and voters’ decisions are influenced by several factors, including party loyalty, leadership, religion, ethnicity, economic concerns, and candidates’ policies.
The reference to controversies from the 2023 campaign also raises questions about how effectively political parties address damaging perceptions and rebuild public trust.
However, the warning that more damaging revelations could follow risks shifting public attention from substantive political discussions to personal exchanges.
As political realignments continue ahead of the next election, Obi, Kwankwaso, and other political actors will need more than prominent endorsements to secure broad support. Their ability to communicate clear policies, address past controversies, and build trust across regional boundaries will be crucial.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
