Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Former adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has advised the Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, on what he needs to do to clinch the 2027 presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Baba-Ahmed, who spoke on Thursday during a national television programme, said several experienced politicians are also seeking the ADC ticket. He noted that Obi and his supporters must adopt a more tactful and strategic approach to secure the party’s nomination.
According to the former presidential aide, Atiku Abubakar, who is also aligned with the ADC, currently enjoys a clear advantage under a convention-based primary system due to his extensive political experience and deep understanding of party dynamics.
“Vice President Atiku is head and shoulders above other candidates in terms of emerging through convention,” Baba-Ahmed said.
“He benefits from experience, wider reach, stronger structures, and more loyal supporters. He also understands the mechanics of internal party democracy better than most.”
While acknowledging Obi’s popularity and strong grassroots appeal, Baba-Ahmed warned that his current strategy may not be sufficient in a highly competitive coalition environment dominated by seasoned political actors.
“I think Governor Peter Obi and his team are not helping his case,” he said.
He praised Obi’s nationwide visibility and political engagement, describing him as one of the most travelled politicians in recent times.
“I think he is the most travelled politician I’ve seen in recent times, and that’s good for him. He tries to stay in touch with the grassroots, which is commendable,” Baba-Ahmed noted.
However, he cautioned that Obi must recognise the evolving political terrain and the calibre of rivals he now faces within the ADC coalition.
“What he needs to do now is to sit down with his people and accept the reality that he is competing against hardline politicians who are equally determined,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed further urged Obi to emulate Atiku’s approach to managing supporters and internal party tensions, particularly by discouraging public confrontations.
“What Vice President Atiku did by telling his supporters to calm down and avoid trading insults was the right move,” he said, adding that “Peter Obi should do twice as much.”
