By Seyi Odewale
Former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has argued that defeating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections will require intense vigilance and mobilisation, which he described as “red eye,” rather than reliance on post-election court action.
Baba-Ahmed made the remarks in a video shared on X, where he criticised Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems, alleging that constitutional provisions were breached during the 2023 presidential election.
His comments reflect growing frustration within opposition circles over the limits of litigation in resolving disputed polls.
“I told Peter Obi the Supreme Court cannot give you governor and give you presidency,” he said, insisting that political actors must be proactive on Election Day rather than depend on judicial remedies afterwards.
While framed as a call for vigilance, the remarks have drawn criticism for appearing to downplay institutional redress mechanisms.
The Kaduna-born politician likened the current moment to the June 12 struggle, arguing that past political movements succeeded because they organised aggressively over long periods and mobilised public pressure against perceived injustice.
Analysts, however, caution that historical parallels should not obscure the need for clear, lawful strategies that strengthen—not weaken—democratic norms.
Baba-Ahmed acknowledged that those in power are often better organised and more effective at protecting their interests, contending that any serious opposition must match that level of preparedness.
He maintained that vigilance at polling and collation stages is critical, adding that officials who announce falsified results should be held accountable.
Critics say the comments underscore legitimate concerns about electoral credibility but warn that dismissing courts outright risks eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
They argue that sustainable opposition success will require a balance of robust mobilisation, transparent processes and credible policy alternatives—beyond rhetoric alone.
