Former presidential aide Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has launched a scathing critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, warning that Nigeria is currently worse off than it was under former President Muhammadu Buhari and advising Tinubu to step aside in the 2027 presidential election.
Baba-Ahmed, who served as an adviser on political matters in the Office of the Vice President during Tinubu’s government, revealed deep dissatisfaction with the administration’s direction and leadership style. He said he never had a one-on-one meeting with the president and felt marginalized, describing the government as “insular” and lacking the “fire, commitment and zeal” needed to fix Nigeria’s myriad problems. He resigned after 18 months, citing the absence of space to effect meaningful change.
Reflecting on Tinubu’s political history, Baba-Ahmed acknowledged Tinubu’s crucial role in Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 presidential victory, calling it a “deciding factor.” However, he lamented that the optimism that greeted Tinubu’s presidency in 2023 has not translated into effective governance. Instead, he accused the administration of pushing the country “to the deep end” with harsh economic measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies, which were implemented without adequate preparation, worsening the economy and living conditions.
Baba-Ahmed highlighted the widening gap between official government claims and the lived realities of Nigerians, particularly in the North, where insecurity, poverty, and unemployment have intensified. He described the situation as “unbelievable,” noting that more blood is being shed now than in previous years despite government statistics suggesting otherwise. He questioned whether the president and his team truly understand or acknowledge the severity of the country’s challenges.
Addressing the political landscape ahead of the 2027 election, Baba-Ahmed urged Tinubu to forgo a second term, arguing that continued leadership without reform would only prolong failure and damage his legacy. He called for a younger generation of leaders who can unite Nigeria’s diverse regions and address their distinct problems. He emphasized that the North, in particular, demands attention to its security and economic issues and will play a decisive role in the upcoming elections.
The former aide also criticized the competence of Tinubu’s cabinet, claiming that more than half of the ministers are unfit to manage critical sectors like security and public trust. He condemned the administration’s communication strategy as confusing and ineffective, contributing to public distrust.
In response, the presidency dismissed Baba-Ahmed’s criticisms as politically motivated and unfounded, with presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga calling the remarks “attacks” and promising to await further “revelations.” Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defended Tinubu’s record, citing achievements in education funding, agricultural production, and infrastructure development as evidence of progress under his leadership.
Baba-Ahmed’s outspoken stance reflects growing frustration among some political actors and citizens who feel that Nigeria’s current trajectory under Tinubu is failing to meet the urgent needs of its people. His warnings serve as a call for introspection within the government and a push for new leadership that can genuinely address the country’s deep-seated challenges.
