Baba-Ahmed: Defeat Tinubu Through Action, Not Courts

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has called on Nigerians to focus on proactive political mobilization rather than legal battles to defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Baba-Ahmed made the remarks in a video shared on social media by X user @Dejii, where he sharply criticized Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems. He alleged that the Constitution was breached during the 2023 presidential election and questioned the effectiveness of relying on court interventions to resolve electoral grievances.

“I told Peter Obi, the Supreme Court cannot give you governor and give you presidency. For God’s sake, stand up and do something. The Nigerian Constitution was clearly breached,” Baba-Ahmed said in the video.

READ ALSO: Global Travel Disruption As US Pauses Visa Processing In 75 Countries

The Kaduna-born politician compared the current political climate to the June 12 struggle, emphasizing that past political actors effectively mobilized Nigerians over extended periods to challenge perceived injustices. He argued that systemic change in Nigeria requires sustained engagement and vigilance rather than dependence on the judiciary.

Baba-Ahmed’s comments reflect his longstanding criticism of the country’s legal and electoral institutions, which he says often protect the interests of those in power rather than uphold constitutional principles. He acknowledged that political elites have historically been effective at organizing and safeguarding their power, noting that this advantage poses a significant challenge to opposition forces.

“The people in power know how to organise themselves and defend their interests. To overcome them, it is not about taking them to court; it is about strategic, persistent action,” he added.

Analysts say Baba-Ahmed’s remarks resonate with growing frustration among opposition figures who believe that Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems are often skewed in favor of incumbents. His call for grassroots mobilization and proactive engagement echoes sentiments expressed during previous political movements in the country, where mass mobilization proved more impactful than litigation.

Baba-Ahmed’s intervention also signals a broader debate within Nigeria’s political landscape about the role of legal channels versus public action in achieving democratic change. With the 2027 general elections approaching, his comments are likely to spark discussions among political parties, civil society actors, and the electorate on the most effective strategies to challenge the ruling government.

Observers note that while court actions remain a tool for resolving specific electoral disputes, political victories in Nigeria often require sustained grassroots organizing, strategic alliances, and voter mobilization elements that Baba-Ahmed emphasizes as critical for any opposition aiming to unseat the incumbent administration.

As Nigeria prepares for the next election cycle, the former vice-presidential candidate’s message underscores the importance of civic engagement and proactive participation in shaping the country’s political future, rather than relying solely on judicial remedies to address perceived constitutional violations.