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-Structural Headwinds Datti Warns North May Reject Obi-Kwankwaso Joint Ticket
In a development that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s opposition circles, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Peter Obi’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election, has publicly cast doubt on the viability of a potential joint ticket between Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso for the 2027 race.
Datti’s remarks highlight deep-seated regional, ethnic, and strategic fault lines that could undermine efforts to build a formidable challenge against President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In recent interviews and statements, Datti asserted that it is “very unlikely” the North would rally behind Peter Obi (often referred to as “OK” in political shorthand). While maintaining respect for Obi, Datti questioned whether an Obi-Kwankwaso alliance could overcome entrenched northern political dynamics.
“I as much as possible try to avoid names at this stage or the politics of everyone but it is very unlikely that the North will rally around OK,” Datti stated firmly. He added that even with Kwankwaso on the ticket, success remains uncertain: “Will it work? It’s a big question. We’ll wait and see.”
Datti’s comments come amid reports of Obi and Kwankwaso exploring alliances, possibly under platforms like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), with speculation that Kwankwaso could accept the vice-presidential slot.
Datti revealed he advised Obi as far back as January 31, 2024, to engage key northern figures. “I told him, ‘Your Excellency, from this point, there is Rabiu Kwankwaso, there is Nasir El-Rufai, I will like to suggest that you approach them,’” he recounted.
This advice stemmed from the realities of Nigeria’s ethno-regional politics. In 2023, Obi struggled to gain significant traction in the North despite strong southern and urban youth support.
Kwankwaso, a heavyweight with a loyal base (Kwankwassiyya movement) in Kano and parts of the North-West, was seen by some as a potential bridge.
However, historical patterns show voters have often prioritized regional or religious solidarity, and an Igbo presidential candidate like Obi faces structural headwinds.
SB E-news.
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