Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has stated that the northern region of Nigeria will make a decisive political stance within the next six months regarding whom to support in the 2027 presidential election. According to him, no politician, regardless of their influence or popularity, can emerge as Nigeria’s president without the support of the North.
In a video interview conducted in the Hausa language, Baba-Ahmed appeared alongside Usman Yusuf, a former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme. The duo expressed grave concerns over the current state of the nation, urging northerners to resist being misled by dishonest and divisive political figures as the 2027 general elections approach.
He emphasized, “In six months, the North will determine its political direction. If the rest of the country wishes to align with us, that’s acceptable. If not, we will proceed on our own path. What remains certain is that no one can become Nigeria’s president without the North’s backing.”
Baba-Ahmed called for a government that understands the unique challenges of the region and is committed to resolving them. Reflecting on past administrations, he remarked, “After Buhari’s eight years in power, we gained more insight. Yet, even in the current administration, we are still lamenting. Are we destined only to cry?”
He also recalled the severe impact of the Boko Haram insurgency, pointing out that it devastated all segments of northern society—including Muslims, Christians, and ethnic groups like the Fulani and Baju. This shared suffering, he noted, should inspire greater unity in the region.
“Before Buhari assumed office, Boko Haram was attacking mosques, churches, Abuja, and even Lagos. That was a time when northerners had to come together. Today, politicians think they can just show up and expect our support. Who exactly are they?” he challenged.
Warning against the ongoing marginalization of the North, Baba-Ahmed cautioned that continued exclusion could have serious consequences. “If the plan is to rig the 2027 elections, they need to be very careful. Such a move would be dangerous for Nigeria. The North is observing—elders, common people, and interest groups alike. Soon, the region will say ‘enough is enough.’ The injustice and neglect must end,” he asserted.
Furthermore, he encouraged northern voters to rise above religious and ethnic biases when choosing leaders. “We are done with being misled into voting along religious or tribal lines. That chapter is closed. What we want now is a competent, credible leader who can truly solve our problems,” he concluded
