Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Dr Datti Baba-Ahmed, has moved to dispel growing speculation over a purported presidential ambition, insisting that he has made no declaration to contest Nigeria’s top office and accusing sections of the media—particularly on social platforms—of misrepresenting his remarks.
Speaking on Channels Television on Friday, Baba-Ahmed clarified that recent comments attributed to him were misconstrued, stressing that at no point did he announce an intention to run for president.
“I never declared to contest the presidency two days ago,” he said emphatically.
According to Baba-Ahmed, his comments were limited to reaffirming his continued membership of the Labour Party, amid ongoing political discourse about the party’s future direction and the roles of its key stakeholders. He acknowledged that while political ambitions are often discussed in speculative terms, no formal decision or declaration has been made by him.
His clarification comes in the wake of widespread reports in both traditional and social media suggesting that he was positioning himself for a presidential bid ahead of the next general election. The reports triggered intense debate among party supporters and political observers, many of whom interpreted his remarks as a subtle signal of intent.
Addressing the issue directly, Baba-Ahmed said, “Two days ago, what I did was simply say that I remain in the Labour Party. I never declared to contest the presidency, even though there could be a possibility of that happening. I certainly did not declare for the presidency. I reiterated my membership of the Labour Party, and that is all.”
He further explained that any declaration of interest would be subject to the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the internal processes of the Labour Party, noting that the window for such decisions has not yet opened.
“The point I made was that one would have to wait for the INEC timetable and for the party to formally invite expressions of interest. I did not declare,” he added.
Baba-Ahmed also expressed concern over the role of social media in amplifying inaccurate narratives, warning that sensational reporting can mislead the public and heighten political tension. He urged established media organisations to uphold professional standards by serving as reliable gatekeepers of accurate information.
“It is unfortunate that social media can be so sensational, putting out wrong narratives to emotional listeners. Formal media should act as filters and barriers so the public can always access the correct information,” he said.
The former vice-presidential candidate concluded by reiterating his commitment to the Labour Party, while emphasising that any future political decisions would be communicated clearly and through appropriate channels.
Elijah Adeyemi
