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Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed has moved to clarify his recent comments about Peter Obi, insisting that his political assessment of the former Anambra State governor does not mean their relationship has broken down.
Baba-Ahmed said Obi remains someone he respects and continues to regard as his “boss”, despite the two politicians no longer belonging to the same political party.
He made the clarification during an appearance on the Naija Unfiltered Podcast while responding to the controversy generated by his earlier comments on the 2027 presidential race.
According to Baba-Ahmed, his relationship with Obi remains cordial and he can still reach the former governor directly whenever necessary.
“In reality, if you check what is between me and Peter Obi, and coming to the clarifications now, let me tell you: first and foremost, Obi is my boss. I still call him my boss,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed said their personal connection had remained strong despite their political differences.
He noted that he could call Obi directly and expect him to answer his phone, adding that the former governor would recognise him as a brother.
“If not because I don’t like acting, I could call Peter Obi now and on the second or third ring, he will answer. Hey, my brother Datti,” Baba-Ahmed said.
He also brought up the recent confrontation involving Obi’s convoy in Benue State.
Obi had travelled to the state as part of a humanitarian visit and was reportedly prevented by thugs from proceeding to Yelwata.
Baba-Ahmed suggested that Obi could have contacted him during the situation, saying he was in a position to offer assistance.
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“Sir, what happened in Benue? Why didn’t you call me in Benue?” he said, illustrating what he would have asked Obi.
He further stated that Obi was aware of his willingness and ability to assist.
“He knows I could have helped out in Benue, even where he is now. He knows I could have helped out in Benue. My relationship with Peter is solid,” he added.
The comments came after Baba-Ahmed faced criticism over an earlier interview with Seun Okinbaloye on the Mic On Podcast.
During that interview, he argued that President Bola Tinubu should leave office and expressed doubts about the ability of the major politicians seeking to succeed him in 2027 to transform the country.
Asked specifically whether his assessment also covered Obi, his former running mate in the 2023 presidential election, Baba-Ahmed answered in the affirmative.
“Yes, including Peter Obi,” he said.
The statement sparked reactions from supporters of Obi, with some questioning the former vice-presidential candidate’s criticism of a politician with whom he jointly contested the 2023 election.
Baba-Ahmed’s latest comments, however, indicate that his criticism was directed at Obi’s political capacity and should not be interpreted as a personal disagreement between the two men.
He maintained that despite their different political paths, he still considers Obi his boss and described their relationship as “solid”.
