The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has clarified the reasons behind the failed negotiations with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, regarding their potential membership of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a Hausa political programme on DITV Kaduna, Dr. Baba-Ahmed revealed that both politicians had approached the PRP expressing interest in joining the party. However, discussions collapsed due to disagreements over key conditions for their entry.
“They came and said they wanted to join the PRP, but when we sat down and discussed with them, there were certain demands they made,” Dr. Baba-Ahmed stated. A major sticking point was their request for a guaranteed presidential ticket without undergoing the party’s internal democratic processes or facing any competition.
The PRP Chairman emphasized that the party firmly rejected this demand, insisting on adherence to its principles of internal democracy. “We told them no, this is PRP; we do not practice that kind of politics,” he said. He added that prospective candidates must first formally join the party and follow laid-down procedures before contesting for any position.
Dr. Baba-Ahmed stressed that the PRP remains committed to its ideological roots and transparent processes, refusing to compromise on merit and competition even for high-profile figures. “If you are truly strong contenders, then why fear competition?” he questioned.
He further noted that the PRP harbors no ill feelings toward Obi and Kwankwaso and wishes them well in their future political endeavors. “For Peter Obi and Kwankwaso, we don’t have any problem with them not coming to our party. We wish them luck wherever they go.”
The Peoples Redemption Party reaffirms its dedication to building a credible, principled alternative for Nigerians in 2027 through democratic norms, not expediency or pre-arranged candidacies.