A former political adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has come under criticism following his recent remarks suggesting that the president should not seek re-election in 2027.
Baba-Ahmed, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, argued that President Tinubu has not demonstrated the urgency required to address Nigeria’s challenges.
Baba-Ahmed stated that the president, having achieved his long-standing ambition of leading the country, should pave the way for a younger and more energetic candidate within the All Progressives Congress (APC). “He should find someone within his party — a younger person, a healthier person, a more focused person — and make him his candidate,” he said.
Responding to these comments, a prominent political figure, Hon Umar D. Duhu, faulted Baba-Ahmed’s assessment, describing it as premature and dismissive of the administration’s ongoing efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda. In a statement, Duhu emphasized that governance is a complex and evolving process that requires patience, collaboration, and sustained policy engagement.
Duhu argued that Nigeria’s pressing issues, particularly insecurity, should be the focal point of national discourse rather than speculation about the 2027 general elections. He warned against political distractions, stating that they risk diverting attention from critical national priorities.
He also noted that the APC had already expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership. At the party’s national summit held at the Presidential Villa on May 22, 2025, the Progressives Governors’ Forum passed a vote of confidence in the president, endorsing him for a second term. Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who chairs the forum, said the governors were satisfied with the midterm review of the Renewed Hope Agenda and were committed to supporting Tinubu if he chooses to run in 2027.
Duhu called for unity among political actors and citizens, urging a shift toward constructive dialogue, evidence-based policy discussions, and collective action aimed at strengthening national development.
He stressed that addressing insecurity, improving economic resilience, and advancing social progress should take precedence over partisan rhetoric.
He saud: “In the interest of national cohesion and progress, I humbly urge all stakeholders, government, political leaders, and indeed the citizens, to prioritize unity, constructive dialogue, and evidence-based policy discussions that are devoid of partisan rhetoric.
“It is imperative that we foster a collaborative spirit, transcending individual and party interests, to address the pressing challenges facing Nigeria, including insecurity, economic resilience, and social development. Collective action, informed by data-driven insights and a shared vision for the future, is essential to advancing Nigeria’s development objectives.
“It is through such concerted efforts, marked by mutual accountability and a commitment to the greater good, that we can effectively tackle the nation’s challenges and build a more prosperous, equitable, and secure future for all Nigerians.”
