PRP Chairman Baba Ahmed explains why Peter Obi and Kwankwaso were rejected for the 2027 presidency.

The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Hakeem Baba‑Ahmed, explained why former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) leader Rabiu Kwankwaso were unable to join the PRP before the 2027 general election.

Speaking on a Hausa political programme on DITV Kaduna, Baba‑Ahmed said that talks between the PRP and the two politicians collapsed because of disagreements over the terms of a potential affiliation.

He added that Obi and Kwankwaso had first approached the PRP to explore an alliance, and the discussions had progressed to the point where a committee was proposed to continue the dialogue.

“They approached us, expressing their desire to join the PRP, but during our discussions, they presented certain conditions,” he said.

The chairman highlighted that a key point of contention was the demand from both men to secure the party’s presidential ticket without facing internal competition.

“Prior to joining, they indicated that they were presidential candidates, which implied they should be awarded the ticket. We responded by saying no, this is the PRP; we do not engage in that type of politics,” Baba‑Ahmed remarked.

He said the party maintained that Obi and Kwankwaso must first become official members and follow the PRP’s established protocols before seeking elective positions.

Baba‑Ahmed elaborated, “I informed them that they should first become members of the party. Once they have joined, they can then approach me, saying, ‘I am Obi and I wish to run for president,’ and ‘I am Kwankwaso and I aspire to be his running mate.’”

“However, for you to approach us prior to any decision being reached and request that we assure you the ticket without any opposition is concerning. If you are indeed formidable contenders, then what is the basis for your apprehension regarding competition?” he added.

The PRP leadership recognised the political influence and support networks of both individuals, but insisted that the party could not contravene its constitution or internal democratic procedures.

“We were of the opinion that if anyone were to enter a room and observe Obi and Kwankwaso, they would conclude that strong contenders had arrived. Nevertheless, we cannot compromise our party’s regulations,” he stated.

He also revealed that the camps of the two politicians had requested a large number of party positions, citing the supporters they intended to bring into the PRP.

Baba‑Ahmed noted, “They asked for numerous positions to be allocated to them, citing their large number of supporters. We informed them that this was not an issue; they should first join the party, and then we could convene to discuss further.”