Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has refuted reports claiming that he recently declared his intention to contest the presidency.

Speaking on Channels Television on Friday, Baba-Ahmed said his remarks had been widely misinterpreted, stressing that he made no such declaration.

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

According to him, his recent public comments were limited to reaffirming his continued membership of the Labour Party, amid ongoing political discussions about the party’s future and its prominent figures. While acknowledging that political possibilities may exist in the future, he emphasised that no decision or announcement has been made.

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

Explaining further, Baba-Ahmed said his comments were straightforward and not indicative of any ambition.

“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 said.

He added that any declaration of interest would depend on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable 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 explained.

Baba-Ahmed also criticised the role of social media in spreading misinformation, urging professional media organisations to uphold accuracy and responsibility.

“It is unfortunate that social media can be so sensational, putting out wrong narratives to emotional listeners. I believe formal media should serve as filters and barriers so that the public can always consume correct information,” he said.