The Nigerian Presidency has issued a scathing response to Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, over comments questioning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s chances of securing re-election in 2027. Baba-Ahmed had recently advised Tinubu not to contest, citing national concerns and unmet campaign promises. In response, Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, described Baba-Ahmed’s remarks as illogical and politically shallow.
In a post shared via his verified X handle, Dare said Baba-Ahmed’s arguments lacked coherence and reason, likening his recent television interview to the erratic forecasts of self-proclaimed prophets. He described the Peter Obi–Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed political alliance as a double whammy that brings more confusion than clarity to Nigeria’s political scene. According to Dare, listening to Baba-Ahmed speak is a form of torment, even worse than enduring a typical interview with Peter Obi.
He maintained that Baba-Ahmed’s predictions about 2027 are driven by narrow sentiments and political inexperience. He argued that politics is not for theorists but for those with the vision, courage, and track record to lead. In Dare’s words, if theories alone could win elections, Baba-Ahmed and others like him would have become president by now. He stated that President Tinubu has continuously shown the capacity to lead Nigeria with bold reforms and decisive action.
Responding to criticism that the Tinubu administration has failed to meet its promises, Dare pointed to ongoing reforms and international commendations. He referenced a statement from IMF Mission Chief Schimmelpfennig, who praised Tinubu’s economic reforms for placing Nigeria on stronger footing. Dare emphasized that Tinubu’s government is already delivering results through difficult but necessary choices, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates.
He added that while these reforms may be painful in the short term, they are vital for Nigeria’s long-term stability. The Presidency believes the foundation is now being laid for sustainable economic growth, citing improved investor sentiment and structural realignment of the economy.
On the upcoming 2027 elections, the Presidency expressed strong confidence that President Tinubu will emerge victorious. Dare said Tinubu’s track record in less than two years has already demonstrated his readiness to transform Nigeria, and that his leadership is laying the groundwork for national renewal. He stated that Baba-Ahmed and others who oppose Tinubu will need more than wishful thinking to defeat a leader who has consistently proven his governance ability.
Dare also mocked Baba-Ahmed’s political relevance, advising him to focus on rehabilitating what he described as a failed political career. According to him, Baba-Ahmed’s public appearances contribute nothing meaningful to the national dialogue and only serve to weaken his already diminished political credibility.
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed served as Peter Obi’s running mate in the 2023 general election under the Labour Party. In his recent interview, he urged President Tinubu to step aside in 2027, expressing concerns about the direction of the country. Since assuming office, President Tinubu has pursued an aggressive reform agenda that includes subsidy removal, FX liberalization, and monetary tightening. These policies have drawn both criticism and cautious praise, especially from international institutions like the IMF, which have acknowledged the tough choices being made to stabilize Nigeria’s economy.
With 2027 drawing closer, the political atmosphere is heating up, and the Presidency is making it clear that it views Tinubu’s second term not just as viable, but likely, based on his current trajectory.
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