The political atmosphere in Nigeria is intensifying as the 2027 general elections draw nearer, with strong warnings being issued from unexpected quarters.
Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the immediate past Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has made a resounding call for the President to forego seeking re-election, stating unequivocally that Tinubu “can’t run this government.”
A Call for a New Generation to Lead
Dr. Baba-Ahmed, a prominent northern political voice, has not minced words in his assessment of the current administration’s performance.
His critique centres on the perceived inability of the government to effectively tackle the nation’s myriad of deep-seated issues, from economic hardship and insecurity to general governance challenges.
He argues that the gravity of Nigeria’s lingering problems necessitates a change in leadership.
In a pointed recommendation, Baba-Ahmed has urged President Tinubu to “step aside” and make way for a younger generation to take the reins.
This sentiment suggests a growing disillusionment within certain political circles regarding the current leadership’s capacity to deliver transformative governance.
Northern Political Reassessment
The former aide’s comments carry significant weight, particularly given his recent close proximity to the presidency and his influence in the Northern political landscape.
He has also warned that the North, a crucial voting bloc, is poised to reassess its political direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
Baba-Ahmed cautioned that the region would no longer tolerate what he termed “shenanigans” from the current administration and intends to make its position clear to the world.
This signals potential political realignments and a serious challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) if the current trajectory of governance is not improved.
He suggested that the next election might be a contest of “Nigerians against APC.”
Echoes of Discontent
Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s resignation earlier in the year was itself a potent signal, which he later clarified by stating that he was “not satisfied with Tinubu’s government.”
His latest public statements have added fuel to the national conversation about the state of the nation and the shape of the 2027 polls, placing President Tinubu and the APC under intense scrutiny.
The calls for the President to step aside underscore the palpable pressure on the administration to deliver tangible results that improve the lives of Nigerians.

