By Ghazali Ibrahim
Factional National Secretary of the Labour Party (LP), Umar Farouk, has warned that former presidential candidate Peter Obi risks losing his place as the party’s flagbearer in the 2027 election if he continues associating with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Farouk, speaking during an interview with Trust TV on Wednesday, said the LP’s presidential ticket is open to all aspirants and not reserved for Obi, who flew the party’s flag in the 2023 general election.
He emphasized that Obi’s continued political engagement with leaders of the ADC, a key player in the ‘coalition for a new Nigeria’ could cost him the Labour Party’s nomination.
“There’s no way you’ll continue to romance other political parties and still expect to return to contest under Labour Party. You may be disqualified ab initio,” he warned.
Farouk also declared that Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, is equally qualified to run for president and will be given the opportunity if he chooses to contest.
“Datti is qualified to contest for the presidency just as Peter Obi is. If he comes forward, picks the form, mobilises support, and wins the primaries, the ticket is his,” he said.
This development comes shortly after Baba-Ahmed publicly hinted at his willingness to contest in 2027, while reaffirming support for Obi and stating he is not desperate for power.
The statement highlights growing internal divisions within the party ahead of the next general elections.
