Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed has offered a striking a$$essment of President Bola Tinubu’s political influence and prospects ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking during an interview with Trust TV, Baba-Ahmed acknowledged the political structure and alliances Tinubu has built over the years, despite his disagreement with some of the President’s policies.

‘He organised for 16 years’

Reflecting on Tinubu’s political journey, Baba-Ahmed argued that the President achieved what several other politicians had been unable to accomplish by spending years building a formidable political network.

“Even though I don’t entirely agree with him, he did what others were not able to do. He organised for 16 years, not just plan.”

Baba-Ahmed also suggested that Tinubu’s political influence could make it difficult for opposition parties to unite ahead of the 2027 election.

“He (Tinubu) will not allow them (opposition) to come together. He probably actually chooses candidates in the opposition parties. He installs leadership in those political parties. He does what you and I cannot imagine.”

‘Only God Almighty can stop it’

Assessing Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 presidential election, Baba-Ahmed made another strong statement about the President’s political influence.

“If Tinubu says something will happen, only God Almighty can stop it. If he says to be declared in 2027, only God Almighty can stop it.”

When asked whether his comments amounted to praise or criticism, Baba-Ahmed maintained that he was simply offering his assessment of Nigeria’s political situation.

Baba-Ahmed was Peter Obi’s running mate under the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election.

His comments have generated discussion online, particularly over Tinubu’s political influence, the strength of the opposition and the possible dynamics of the 2027 presidential race.