Peter Obi consoles Datti Baba-Ahmed on brother’s death

Nigerian political veteran Peter Obi, a senior figure in the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), issued a public condolence on Friday after his former running‑mate, former lawmaker Datti Baba‑Ahmed, suffered the loss of his younger brother.

Obi posted the tribute on his verified X account, stating, “I deeply mourn with my dear younger brother Datti Baba‑Ahmed over the passing of his beloved younger brother.” He extended his thoughts and prayers to Baba‑Ahmed’s family, asking for divine mercy and strength during the period of grief. “May Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al‑jannatul Firdaus, and give the family the strength and patience to bear this painful loss—inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un,” the statement read. Obi concluded by praying for comfort for all who mourn and affirmed, “Indeed, Allah is the Best of planners.”

The message was brief and focused solely on expressing sympathy, with no reference to any political agenda or forthcoming activities. Baba‑Ahmed, who served as a senator representing Kano Central from 2015 to 2019, thanked Obi later in a separate post, acknowledging the support during a difficult personal moment.

Obi’s condolence comes amid a period of relative calm for the NDC, which has been regrouping after its 2023 electoral performance. While the party is not currently engaged in a national election cycle, it continues to maintain a presence in public discourse through statements on governance, security and social issues. The expression of solidarity between the two former allies underscores personal ties that extend beyond electoral collaborations.

No further details about funeral arrangements or the identity of the deceased have been released. Both parties have asked for privacy as they navigate the mourning process. The condolence reflects a customary practice among Nigerian political figures to publicly acknowledge personal losses, reinforcing communal bonds within the nation’s leadership circles.