The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Hakeem Baba Ahmed, has responded to questions surrounding the recent entry of his younger brother, Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed, into the party, stating that membership decisions are open to all Nigerians.
Speaking during an interview on Trust TV News, Baba Ahmed confirmed the development when asked about reports that his brother had joined the PRP in Kaduna. “Yeah, my younger brother,” he said.
When questioned on whether the move was influenced by family ties or prior discussions, Baba Ahmed maintained that party membership is not restricted by familial relationships. “My son can join the party. My son can join the party. My daughter can join the party,” he stated.
Concerns were raised during the interview about the perception that the development could suggest a consolidation of influence within one family, potentially affecting public trust in the party.
Responding to this, Baba Ahmed rejected the notion, emphasizing that there is no legal or institutional restriction preventing family members from belonging to the same political party. “No, there’s no law that says families can’t belong to one party. My younger brother has a mind of his own. PRP is a political party. It’s an institution on its own,” he said.
He further explained that the PRP operates as an open platform, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds who are interested in participating in its activities.
“People can join it. There are millions and millions of people who are interested in PRP. They’re coming either as voters or admirers or contestants or platform,” he added.
Baba Ahmed also highlighted a recent increase in party membership, noting that his brother’s entry is part of a broader trend rather than an isolated occurrence. “You’d be amazed at how many people have joined the PRP in the last few weeks. Datti Baba-Ahmed is just one of them means nothing,” he said.
He described the decision as reflective of individual conviction rather than coordinated family influence. “It just means that he’s another Nigerian who thinks PRP is the future,” Baba Ahmed stated.
Concluding his remarks, he questioned suggestions that the party should limit its visibility or growth based on such concerns. “Well, what do you want us to have, low profile?” he said.
