Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed.
Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who recently quit the job as Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sunday announced that Northern Nigeria is preparing to decide its political direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He stressed that no candidate could emerge president without the region’s support.
Speaking during a video interview that went viral on social media on Sunday, Baba-Ahmed appeared alongside Professor Usman Yusuf, former Head of the National Health Insurance Scheme. He declared that the North was becoming more politically aware and determined to support leadership that truly understands and can address its challenges.
Said he: “We need a government that feels our pain and offers real solutions”.
He pointing to the damage caused by insecurity, including Boko-Haram attacks, and other crises that had affected the North, cutting across religious and ethnic divides.
Known for his strong stance on northern interests and his previous role as spokesperson of the Arewa Elders Forum, Baba-Ahmed criticised the country’s current political direction. He called on northern voters to reject politicians who exploit divisions and manipulate the truth for their own gain.
He cautioned against any attempt to rig the 2027 elections, saying such actions would be dangerous for the country. He cited rising frustration and feelings of exclusion among people in the region.
Baba-Ahmed explained that his resignation from the Presidency was to return to “the struggle for northern emancipation”, hinting that the North’s official political position would be declared in the coming months.
Said he: “We are tired of being sidelined. Very soon, our elders, our people, and our organisations will take a stand and speak with one voice”.
Said he to all presidential aspirants as he concluded his message: “No one can become Nigeria’s president without the backing of the North”.
