Datti made the remark while speaking on the sidelines of his unveiling at the national headquarters of the Peoples Redemption Party in Abuja, where he arrived with supporters loyal to a faction of the Labour Party and allies of the Julius Abure-led camp.
He said he stood firmly with Obi during the 2023 campaign, adding that he corrected several internal issues within the campaign structure, including branding and controversies, while insisting others had initially avoided the Labour Party candidate.
According to him, “If only Obi had gone by what I said, Tinubu would not be in the villa today.”
He argued that leadership requires firmness, especially during electoral disputes, stressing that failure to challenge alleged irregularities contributed to the 2023 outcome.
Datti added that he was the only figure who publicly raised concerns about what he described as constitutional breaches during the election period, insisting that political engagement requires readiness to “fight” when necessary.
He further revealed that he had earlier proposed a political alliance between Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing it as part of strategic planning for future elections.
However, he expressed doubt about the viability of such an alliance, especially in securing broad northern support, while maintaining that he still respects both political figures.
Datti also criticised Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party amid internal disputes, arguing that he should have stayed to resolve the party’s challenges rather than exit.
In response, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Yunusa Tanko, dismissed Datti’s claims, insisting that Obi has remained one of the most consistent critics of the current administration.
Tanko maintained that Obi’s political influence remains significant and said multiple individuals contributed to discussions around possible alliances, adding that no single person could take credit for such efforts.