I never declared for presidency – Datti Baba-Ahmed

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has denied reports suggesting that he recently declared his intention to contest the presidency, describing such claims as a misrepresentation of his remarks.

Baba-Ahmed made the clarification on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television, where he stressed that he has not made any declaration to run for president.

“I never declared to contest the presidency two days ago,” he said.

He explained that his recent public comments were solely to reaffirm his continued membership of the Labour Party, amid ongoing discussions about the party’s future and leadership.

According to him, while political possibilities may arise in the future, no decision or announcement has been made.

The clarification followed widespread reports across traditional and social media suggesting that Baba-Ahmed was positioning himself for a presidential bid ahead of the next general election, a development that generated debate among political observers and supporters.

Providing further explanation, Baba-Ahmed said his statement had been taken out of context.

“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,” he stated.

He added that any declaration of interest would depend on the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Labour Party’s internal processes.

“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 spread of misinformation on social media, urging professional media organisations to uphold accuracy and act as gatekeepers against false narratives.

“It is unfortunate that social media can be so sensational, putting out wrong narratives to emotional listeners.

“Formal media should serve as filters so the public can always get the correct information,” he added.