The Labour Party (LP) has firmly stated that its presidential ticket for the 2027 general elections is not reserved for any individual, including its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The party’s National Secretary, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, made this declaration while emphasizing the party’s commitment to internal democracy and fair competition.

Speaking during an interview with Trust TV, Ibrahim addressed the increasing speculation about who would fly the Labour Party’s flag in the next presidential election. He stated that no aspirant, regardless of their previous status or contributions, would automatically be handed the party’s presidential ticket. Instead, he stressed that the position will be open for all qualified members to contest.
He further explained that the party is open to allowing its former vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, to contest for the presidency if he expresses interest. According to Ibrahim, Datti is not only constitutionally qualified but also politically capable of vying for the nation’s highest office under the Labour Party’s banner.

“Datti is as competent and qualified to contest the presidency as Peter Obi,” Ibrahim said. “The seat is not reserved for any specific individual. Our nomination process will be democratic, transparent, and competitive. Anyone, including Datti, who meets the criteria can come forward, obtain the nomination forms, mobilise their supporters, and vie for the ticket.”
This statement comes amid growing concerns within the party over Peter Obi’s recent alignment with leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party involved in coalition discussions aimed at strengthening the opposition.

Ibrahim expressed dissatisfaction with Obi’s engagements with the ADC, warning that such political associations could disqualify him from being considered for the Labour Party’s presidential ticket in 2027.
He noted that divided political loyalty is unacceptable and poses a threat to the internal integrity of the party.
“You cannot be fraternizing with another political party and still expect to return and be treated as the face of the Labour Party,” he warned.
“Once it is established that you are in active political association with another party, your chances in ours become questionable. From the outset, such dual allegiance could lead to automatic disqualification.”
Ibrahim added that the Labour Party would not compromise its values by tolerating political inconsistency or disloyalty. He maintained that the party is focused on building a solid and unified front ahead of the 2027 elections, and as such, those interested in contesting must show full commitment to the party’s principles and objectives.
In a related development, just a week prior, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed had expressed a willingness to join the 2027 presidential race if Peter Obi chooses not to contest. However, Datti, while affirming his readiness, reiterated that he is not desperate for power.
He emphasized that he continues to stand by Obi, describing the former Anambra State Governor as a credible and visionary leader who still deserves another chance to represent the Labour Party in the next general elections.
Despite the internal wranglings and debates over potential candidacy, both Obi and Datti appear to remain key figures within the Labour Party. Still, Ibrahim’s statement serves as a strong reminder that the party’s future candidate will be determined not by favoritism, but through due democratic processes and unwavering party loyalty.
The unfolding events hint at a potentially competitive and intriguing build-up to the 2027 elections, with the Labour Party poised to redefine its leadership structure and reaffirm its commitment to internal democracy and ideological discipline.