Datti Moves to Reunite Labour Party, Says Obi Still Committed Ahead of 2027

In a major push to restore unity within the Labour Party (LP), former vice presidential candidate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has met with the factional National Chairman, Julius Abure, and pledged to lead reconciliation efforts across party lines — including mending fences with the 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.

Speaking at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Abure-led faction in Abuja on Monday, Datti described himself as a loyal party man determined to bridge divisions and reinvigorate the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Labour Party is not a party to walk away from,” he declared. “The successes, the history that Labour Party has recorded is unique and unprecedented.”

Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Datti highlighted that the LP had polled over 10 million votes — though the final tally was later reduced to 6.1 million. He lamented what he described as “state capture” and its consequences for internal party cohesion.

He made it clear that his mission is one of peace, not politics.

“I am here as a peacemaker to reconcile divergent opinions,” he stated, adding that although he has listened to coalition talks from other political movements, he remains fully committed to the Labour Party.

Taking a subtle swipe at ongoing coalition efforts by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other groups, Datti warned LP members not to be swayed by political arrangements that don’t align with the party’s values.

“A government was removed and what followed was disaster,” he said. “It is not just about unseating a government. What follows must be credible and responsible.”

He also addressed the ongoing leadership tussle within the party, affirming that while he recognizes both the Nenadi Usman-led group and the Abure-led executive, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) currently recognizes Abure’s leadership.

“This I do devoid of any personal interest, ambition, or animosity toward any group,” Datti assured.

In a reassuring statement to party loyalists, Datti cited recent comments by Peter Obi as evidence of the former Anambra governor’s continued commitment to the Labour Party.

“I am glad to note that from the comments of my boss, His Excellency Governor Peter Obi, he remains in the Labour Party,” he said.

Datti concluded by vowing to rally all factions, saying the party must sit down, engage in honest dialogue, and move forward together.

Alternative Headlines You Can Use:

Datti Steps In as Peacemaker, Moves to Reunite Labour Party Ahead of 2027 “I’m Still LP”: Datti Reaffirms Loyalty, Seeks Reconciliation With Obi, Factions Labour Party Can’t Be Abandoned — Datti Declares in Push for Unity Datti Slams Political Coalitions, Reaffirms Obi’s Loyalty to Labour Party