Fresh cracks have emerged within the Labour Party following criticism of Peter Obi by his 2023 running mate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, over his reported defection and handling of party challenges.
Baba-Ahmed, in an interview circulating on X (formerly Twitter), took issue with Obi’s decision to leave the party amid internal disputes, arguing that leaders must confront difficulties rather than step away from them.
“Someone who got the Labour Party’s ticket so easily should have stayed to fix the problem of the party no matter how difficult it is,” he said.
Framing his criticism around leadership responsibility, Baba-Ahmed questioned whether walking away from conflict reflects the kind of resilience required in Nigeria’s political space.
“My former leader saying that wherever there is a quarrel, he will walk away? So there is a quarrel in Nigeria, will he walk away?” he asked.
His comments suggest a deeper concern about Obi’s approach to political engagement, particularly as discussions around the 2027 elections begin to take shape.
“If you are not ready to fight, stay in your house,” Baba-Ahmed added, in a remark widely interpreted as a direct challenge to Obi’s readiness for the country’s political realities.
The criticism signals growing internal disagreement within the Labour Party, once seen as a rising opposition force after the 2023 elections. Analysts say the exchange reflects broader uncertainty about the party’s cohesion and future direction, especially with key figures now appearing divided over strategy and leadership style.
While Obi has yet to publicly respond to the remarks, the development adds to ongoing debates about opposition politics in Nigeria and the paths leading figures may take ahead of the next electoral cycle.