Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former political adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and current chieftain of the Northern Elders Forum, has expressed his preference that the president refrain from contesting the 2027 elections, citing what he describes as a lack of urgency in addressing Nigeria’s mounting challenges.
Speaking on Channels Television’s *Sunday Politics*, Baba-Ahmed stated that his view has remained unchanged since leaving the administration. He argued that while President Tinubu achieved his long-held ambition of becoming president, his tenure has not reflected the strategic acumen and political drive that marked his rise.
“I’m sorry, but I have to say this again,” Baba-Ahmed said. “When I left his administration, I told many people: I wish President Tinubu would not run again in 2027. His ambition was to become president and he has achieved that. But I don’t think he has run the country well.”
He emphasized that citizens expected a higher level of responsiveness and reform-oriented leadership, and that Tinubu’s earlier reputation for precision and political instinct has not translated into governance outcomes.
Baba-Ahmed suggested that instead of pursuing a second term, President Tinubu should support a younger, healthier, and more focused candidate within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) who can inject new energy into the nation’s leadership.
While President Tinubu has yet to formally announce his intentions for the 2027 race, the APC previously endorsed him as its candidate during the party’s national summit at the Presidential Villa on May 22, with governors expressing confidence in his leadership. The chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, reiterated that party governors remain satisfied with the midterm performance of the administration and are committed to securing electoral victory for Tinubu in 2027.
Baba-Ahmed’s remarks highlight an emerging debate within political circles over the future of leadership in Nigeria and the importance of generational renewal within the country’s ruling party.
