According to a report by Vanguard on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDRC), has said that political disagreements with his former Labour Party running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, would not destroy the personal relationship between them.
Obi made the remarks while responding to comments attributed to Baba-Ahmed concerning the ability of opposition politicians seeking to defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election to address Nigeria’s challenges.
Despite their differing political positions, Obi described Baba-Ahmed as an ally and brother, stressing that their relationship extends beyond politics. The former Anambra State governor maintained that disagreements over political strategies or the country’s direction should not automatically turn former associates into enemies.
He explained that although he and Baba-Ahmed may no longer share identical views on political matters, the differences should not erase the bond they developed during their time working together.
Baba-Ahmed, who previously served as Obi’s vice-presidential running mate under the Labour Party, had raised concerns over the depth of Nigeria’s challenges. He reportedly argued that the country’s problems were so deeply rooted that no individual could single-handedly rescue the nation.
The comments emerged as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with several opposition figures positioning themselves to challenge Tinubu.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Obi are among the prominent opposition politicians seeking the presidency.
Obi’s response came after he was asked about Baba-Ahmed’s decision to include him among those he believed lacked the capacity to rescue Nigeria. Rather than responding with hostility, Obi emphasised the importance of maintaining their personal bond despite their political differences.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Idris Zekeri, spokesman for the Peter Obi Media Office, the former Anambra governor was described as taking a conciliatory position when questioned about his former running mate’s comments.
Obi reportedly stressed that political disagreements should not permanently damage relationships between people who once worked closely together.
He said, “Datti remains my beloved brother, and no political disagreement can change that. I believe, in my heart, that he feels the same way. The time will come when we can sit together once more, not as former allies or political adversaries, but simply as brothers who contributed to Nigeria’s progress. Brotherhood must endure beyond politics, and I hope ours always does.”
His statement reflects an appeal for political differences to remain separate from personal relationships, while underscoring his hope that his bond with Baba-Ahmed will survive their changing political positions.
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