Dare Babalola
Labour Party’s former vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has denied reports suggesting he intends to run for president, stating that he never declared to contest presidency.
Baba-Ahmed clarified on Channels Television on Friday that his comments had been misinterpreted, stressing that he never made such a declaration.
“I never declared to contest the presidency two days ago,” he said.
He explained that his recent comments were taken out of context, saying he was only reaffirming his Labour Party membership amid growing speculation about the party’s future.
Baba-Ahmed noted that while anything is possible in politics, no decision or announcement has been made regarding a presidential run.
The clarification follows widespread media and social media reports suggesting Baba-Ahmed was gearing up for a presidential run ahead of the next general election, sparking debate among supporters and observers who saw his comments as a sign of ambition.
Explaining further, 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 added that any declaration of interest would depend on the Independent National Electoral Commission timetable and the party’s internal processes.
“The submission I made was that one will have to wait for the INEC timetable and for the party to make the call for people to indicate their interest. I did not declare,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed also criticised the role of social media in amplifying misinformation, urging professional media organisations to ensure accuracy.
“It is unfortunate that social media can be so sensational, putting out wrong narratives to emotional listeners. I believe formal media like yours should serve as filters and barriers so that the general public can always consume the correct information,” he said.
