Date: April 29, 2026 l By Andrew Baba
Former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has announced his decision to leave the party and join the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), marking a significant political shift ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
According to reports, Baba-Ahmed made the announcement on April 28, 2026, during a televised political programme, confirming that his exit from the Labour Party would take effect at midnight. He stated clearly that the PRP would be his next political destination.
The former running mate to Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election cited internal disagreements and a perceived departure from the party’s founding ideals as key reasons for his defection. He expressed dissatisfaction with recent developments within the Labour Party, suggesting that its current direction no longer aligns with the principles it once represented.
Baba-Ahmed also pointed to internal restructuring within the party, including decisions that he claimed made his political engagement increasingly difficult. He argued that the Labour Party had strayed from its original vision, prompting his decision to seek a new political platform.
In announcing his move, he described the PRP as a party with deep historical roots and ideological consistency, noting that it has existed for decades and retains a reputation for progressive politics.
Beyond party politics, Baba-Ahmed raised broader concerns about Nigeria’s political landscape, warning against what he described as efforts to weaken opposition parties. He criticized the ruling government for allegedly prioritizing political dominance over addressing critical issues such as insecurity and economic challenges.
The defection is expected to have implications for opposition dynamics in Nigeria, particularly within the Labour Party, which has faced internal divisions in recent months. Analysts say the move could reshape alliances and influence coalition-building efforts ahead of the 2027 elections.
While it remains unclear what role Baba-Ahmed will play within the PRP, his entry into the party is likely to boost its visibility and position it as a potential contender in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.