The Labour Party (LP) has publicly disowned a statement made by its former vice presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, describing President Bola Tinubu’s administration as “questionably constitutional.” The party, in a strongly worded rebuttal, dissociated itself from the remarks, labeling them as undemocratic and potentially inflammatory.
The statement, issued by the LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Arabambi Abayomi, and released by the party’s National Secretary, Umar Ibrahim, in Kaduna on Saturday, emphasized the party’s commitment to upholding democratic norms. Abayomi stated that while the LP had contested the outcome of the 2023 presidential election up to the Supreme Court, it accepted the court’s verdict in the interest of national peace and stability.
“The Labour Party approached the 2023 elections with the determination to bring positive change, and though the results did not favor us, we pursued legal avenues and ultimately respected the Supreme Court’s decision,” Abayomi said. “We have since moved forward and urge all members to refrain from statements that could incite unrest.”
The party also expressed surprise at a recent meeting convened by Abia State Governor Alex Otti and former presidential candidate Peter Obi on April 9 in Abuja, where Baba-Ahmed reportedly reiterated his claims about the legitimacy of Tinubu’s government. Abayomi criticized the remarks as reckless, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s validation of the election results.
Baba-Ahmed had further stirred controversy in a television interview, alleging that appointments made by the Tinubu administration were “fake and illegal” and accusing the government of worsening Nigeria’s economic woes. The LP spokesman condemned these assertions, warning that such rhetoric risked provoking public discontent against a democratically elected government.
“Statements like these are not only inciteful but also dangerous, especially at a time when Nigeria is navigating complex challenges,” Abayomi said. “While holding leaders accountable is necessary, we must avoid actions that could destabilize the nation.”
Drawing parallels to the Arab Spring uprisings, Abayomi cautioned against unchecked political rhetoric that could escalate into widespread unrest. He stressed that Nigeria’s fragile state demands unity and constructive engagement rather than divisive commentary.
The Labour Party reaffirmed its stance under the leadership of Julius Abure, distancing itself from Baba-Ahmed’s comments and urging members to prioritize national cohesion. Additionally, the party raised concerns over Governor Otti’s alleged warning of a “doomsday” for the Abure-led executive, interpreting it as a veiled threat to the party’s leadership.
As political tensions persist, the LP’s statement underscores the delicate balance between opposition critique and maintaining national stability in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
