By Abigail David

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has revealed that his decision to run alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election was driven by sympathy rather than political alignment.

Speaking during an interview with Symfoni, Baba-Ahmed said Obi had approached three prominent politicians before selecting him as a running mate, but all declined the offer. According to him, he felt compassion for Obi and concern about Nigeria’s situation, prompting him to accept the position.

He explained that he volunteered to support the ticket because he believed it was in the country’s interest, describing himself as someone who has always stepped forward when he felt Nigeria needed help.

Baba-Ahmed also stressed that his political relationship with Obi had limits, insisting that the former Anambra governor does not determine his political future.

“With due respect, he does not own my politics. He does not own me. I am independent,” he said.

The former senator, who left the Labour Party for the Peoples Redemption Party in May 2026, used the interview to distance himself from Obi’s recent political moves.

He argued that internal crises within the Labour Party were not sufficient grounds for leaving the party, questioning whether similar leadership challenges could not emerge in any other political platform.

Baba-Ahmed maintained that political actors should remain and address internal party disputes rather than move elsewhere, adding that Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party was his personal choice.

The remarks offer fresh insight into the relationship between the two politicians, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the Labour Party platform and finished third in the race.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

A civil society organisation, Concerned Citizens for Electoral Accountability in Kaduna State, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate remarks allegedly made by a political aide to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani regarding past election results in Igabi Local Government Area.

In a petition addressed to the INEC Chairman and dated June 1, 2026, the group expressed concern over a viral video and media reports attributed to Hon. Abubakar Mamadi, Special Adviser on Political Matters to the governor. The petition, signed by Suleiman Usman Yusuf, Jalal Falal, and Abubakar Ibrahim, Esq., cited reports alleging that Mamadi made comments at a political gathering on May 29 concerning the conduct of previous elections in the area.

The group stressed that it was not alleging wrongdoing and acknowledged that the authenticity, context, and meaning of the reported remarks remain subject to verification. “We do not presume the guilt of any individual and make no definitive allegation that any crime has been committed,” the petition stated. The organisation urged INEC and relevant authorities to review the original recording, verify its authenticity, prepare an official transcript and translation where necessary, and obtain statements from individuals mentioned in the reported remarks.

According to the petitioners, a transparent review would help strengthen public confidence in the electoral process ahead of future elections. The group emphasized that its request is aimed at promoting accountability and protecting electoral integrity, while respecting the constitutional rights and presumption of innocence of all parties involved.

By Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu

Aspirant for the Abia South Senatorial District seat on the platform of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Bestman Eruba, has outlined his plans for the district, pledging to prioritise job creation, youth empowerment, and grassroots development if elected.

Speaking on his ambition, Eruba said his understanding of the needs of communities across Abia South would guide his representation in the Senate. “I know what Abia South needs at the grassroots level. If elected, I will work to deliver meaningful development and improve the lives of our people,” he said.

The YPP aspirant also acknowledged the contributions of the current senator representing the district, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, commending his service and commitment to the constituency. According to Eruba, his candidacy represents an opportunity to bring fresh ideas and renewed energy to the district’s representation at the National Assembly.

He pledged to focus on attracting federal projects and government presence to communities within the district while promoting policies that support economic growth and employment. Eruba further promised quality representation, effective legislative oversight, and the sponsorship of laws aimed at addressing the challenges facing constituents.

He also assured residents that he would remain accessible and accountable to the people throughout his tenure if elected. The Abia South Senatorial District election is expected to feature candidates from several political parties ahead of the next general elections.