A public affairs analyst has criticized Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former aide to President Ahmed Tinubu, for his involvement in Nigeria’s opposition politics. Baba-Ahmed, who previously served as the spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum, recently suggested that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar should step down from the contest for the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate in the 2027 election.
Olumide Obayemi, convener of the Omoluabi Coalition, responded to Baba-Ahmed’s comment, describing it as duplicitous and partisan. Obayemi argued that Baba-Ahmed’s statement was calculated to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 election. Since leaving the Tinubu administration, Baba-Ahmed has been criticized for not speaking out against the government’s handling of economic hardship, social dislocation, and national despair.
Instead, Baba-Ahmed has focused his criticism on the opposition, particularly the African Democratic Congress. This has raised questions about his loyalty and motivations. Obayemi noted that it is ironic that Baba-Ahmed, who claims to be non-partisan, has not criticized the current administration’s policies but has found fault with the opposition’s efforts to address the country’s challenges.
The Omoluabi Coalition emphasized that no individual has the authority to dictate political demands or silence opposing views. The coalition stated that supporters of various candidates, including Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, are entitled to their opinions and that democracy requires engagement and discussion, not silence.
The criticism of Baba-Ahmed’s involvement in opposition politics highlights the complexities of Nigeria’s political landscape. As the country prepares for the 2027 election, the role of former government officials and their influence on the political process will likely be subject to increasing scrutiny. The African Democratic Congress and other opposition parties will need to navigate these challenges to effectively challenge the current administration and address the country’s pressing issues.
