Baba-Ahmed: Atiku Better Positioned Than Obi for ADP Convention

Former Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has said that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is more likely than former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi to secure the African Democratic Party’s (ADP) presidential ticket through a party convention.

Baba-Ahmed made the remarks on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday, clarifying recent comments attributed to Dr. Umar Ardo, Convener of the Northern League of Patriots and Democratic Leaders. He emphasized that the statements were not discouraging Obi from contesting the presidency, but rather highlighting the potential hurdles Obi may face in a convention-based nomination.

According to Baba-Ahmed, a convention could disadvantage Obi, while Atiku enjoys several advantages, including extensive political experience, nationwide reach, established party structures, and a loyal support base. He suggested that Obi’s path to the ticket would be stronger if the party adopted a consensus or endorsement approach rather than a strict convention vote.

Baba-Ahmed’s comments come amid growing speculation about the ADP’s internal dynamics ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as party leaders weigh the benefits of a convention versus a negotiated consensus to determine their flagbearer.

He added that while Obi remains a viable contender, the structural realities of party politics in Nigeria give Atiku a clear edge in a conventional selection process.

This analysis offers insight into the strategic calculations likely to shape ADP’s nomination process in the months leading to the national election.