Federal government has responded to recent comments made by Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections. Baba-Ahmed had suggested that Vice-President Kashim Shettima should be removed from office.

In a statement on Friday, Stanley Nkwocha, the senior aide to the Vice-President, called Baba-Ahmed’s remarks “obsessive talk” and “gossip at a bar,” implying they are baseless and unnecessary.

The reaction followed Baba-Ahmed’s appearance on the TV station Arise Television, where he questioned why Shettima still holds his position. Baba-Ahmed also called for support for opposition groups planning to contest in future elections.

The presidential aide dismissed Baba-Ahmed’s comments, saying his frustration isn’t justified. Nkwocha also criticised Baba-Ahmed’s political past, pointing out that in 2011, Baba-Ahmed’s election as a senator was overturned by the courts, and he was replaced by Ahmed Makarfi.

Nkwocha also warned that Baba-Ahmed’s recent words could be seen as calling for a military coup, especially after the Labour Party’s poor showing in the 2023 elections. He described Baba-Ahmed’s comments as a sign of desperation.

In defence of Vice-President Shettima, Nkwocha praised him as a loyal and reliable partner of President Bola Tinubu. He highlighted that Shettima has had a successful career as a banker, state governor, senator, and now vice-president—achievements earned through his efforts.

Nkwocha added that Shettima is committed to supporting the government’s programs passionately and that the vice-president represents loyalty and integrity.

Finally, Nkwocha warned that the presidency will no longer ignore what he calls “baseless” attacks from opposition figures. He said they will respond to such criticisms in the future.