Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed Defects From Labour Party To Join Peoples Redemption Party Citing Internal Discord

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed leaves the Labour Party at midnight to join the Peoples Redemption Party. Read his reasons for exiting the 2023 VP post.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 4:10 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from LEADERSHIP Media Group

A Major Shift In The Opposition Landscape

The Nigerian political landscape witnessed a significant realignment on Wednesday morning as Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the running mate to Peter Obi in the 2023 general election, formally exited the Labour Party (LP). During an appearance on Channels Television’s "Politics Today" on Tuesday night, Datti revealed his intention to sever ties with the party that propelled him to national prominence in the last electoral cycle. His resignation, which took effect at midnight, marks a major blow to the LP as it grapples with internal identity crises and leadership disputes ahead of the 2027 election season.

Reasons For The Exit

Datti Baba-Ahmed was candid about the friction that led to his departure. He pointed to a specific "redeployment" within the party hierarchy designed to undermine his influence and make his political life difficult. He argued that the Labour Party has strayed significantly from the "founding ideals" that once made it a viable alternative to the dominant political platforms. "What the Labour Party stood for then is no longer what it is today," he stated, suggesting that the era of internal peace and shared purpose that characterized the 2023 campaign has been replaced by administrative hostility.

Joining The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP)

Following his midnight exit, Datti announced his transition to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP). He highlighted the PRP's long-standing history—dating back approximately 75 years—as a key factor in his decision. The move also carries a significant familial weight, as the PRP is currently chaired by his older brother, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed. By joining the PRP, Datti appears to be seeking a platform with deeper historical roots and more stable leadership as he prepares for the next phase of his political career.