Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has made a bold declaration regarding the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that no presidential candidate can succeed without the backing of the Northern region. In an interview that has since gone viral, Baba-Ahmed, who appeared alongside Professor Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), emphasized the growing political awareness and power of the North. The remarks are seen as a sign of the region's increasing political influence as the country gears up for the next presidential election.
During the conversation, Baba-Ahmed stressed that within the next six months, the North will decide on its political stance for the upcoming election cycle. He stated, “In the next six months, the North will decide where it stands. If the rest of the country wants to join us, fine. If not, we will go our own way.” This firm statement highlights the importance of the North's support in securing the presidency in Nigeria, underscoring that no candidate will be able to achieve victory without winning the trust and support of the northern region. Baba-Ahmed was emphatic in his assertion that the North’s backing is critical for any presidential candidate’s success.
Further explaining the North's political shift, Baba-Ahmed pointed out that the region has become increasingly astute in political matters. The former adviser criticized the current state of affairs in Nigeria, particularly following the eight-year administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He expressed that, despite the transition to a new government, the issues affecting the North remain unresolved, and the people have grown more aware and vocal about their grievances. “We want a government that understands our problems and can address them. After Buhari’s eight years, we became wiser. Now, we are in another government, and we are still crying. Is crying all we know how to do?” Baba-Ahmed remarked, calling on the North to stand firm against divisive and deceptive politicians in the lead-up to the elections.
One of the key issues Baba-Ahmed addressed was the ongoing insecurity faced by the North, particularly the Boko Haram insurgency. He spoke at length about the devastating impact of the insurgency, which has affected various communities, including Muslims, Christians, Fulani, and Baju groups. He emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming these challenges, stating, “Before Buhari became President, Boko Haram was bombing mosques, churches, Abuja, and Lagos. That was a time northerners had to unite. Today, no politician can just show up and expect northerners to fall in line. Who are you?” This statement reflects the growing sense of autonomy and political awareness among northern communities who are increasingly unwilling to accept political manipulation or empty promises.
Baba-Ahmed also made it clear that the North will no longer support any candidate who fails to address its unique and pressing challenges. He warned political leaders that if they attempt to deceive or divide the North, they should be prepared for serious consequences. His remarks served as a strong warning to those who might seek to exploit the North’s political loyalty for their own gain. He cautioned, “If they plan to rig the election, they should be careful. It won’t be good for Nigeria.” This serves as a stark reminder that the North is no longer passive in its political decisions and will hold those in power accountable for their promises.
Dr. Baba-Ahmed, who has long been an influential figure in northern Nigerian politics, previously served as the spokesperson for the Arewa Elders Forum before joining the Tinubu administration. However, he resigned from his advisory role, citing a desire to return to the struggle for northern emancipation and better representation. He explained that his decision was motivated by his commitment to addressing the systemic issues facing the North. Baba-Ahmed revealed that the North’s political direction would soon become clear, adding, “The injustice and sidelining must stop.” He further emphasized, “The North is watching, and soon, our elders, our masses, and our interest groups will say ‘enough is enough.’” This statement signals a shift in northern political dynamics, with a growing movement for greater autonomy and political influence in national matters.