Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who served as the Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima, has tendered his resignation, citing personal reasons. His departure comes after a tenure marked by internal disagreements and public scrutiny over his role and affiliations.
Appointment and Initial Reception
Appointed in September 2023, Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s selection was initially met with optimism, especially from the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), where he previously served as Director of Publicity and Advocacy. The NEF viewed his appointment as a positive step towards inclusive governance and leveraging experienced voices in national affairs.
Controversies and Internal Conflicts
Despite the initial support, Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s tenure was not without controversy. In August 2023, he publicly criticized the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, particularly the removal of petrol subsidies, which he argued exacerbated inflation and hardship in the country. This critique led to internal conflicts within the NEF, with the forum distancing itself from his statements, asserting they were his personal opinions and not representative of the group’s stance.
Calls for Loyalty and Subsequent Resignation
Further tensions arose when Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, publicly challenged northern appointees, including Dr. Baba-Ahmed, to unequivocally support the Tinubu administration or resign. Matawalle emphasized the importance of unity and loyalty among government officials to ensure the success of the administration’s agenda.
Amidst these pressures and the ongoing scrutiny regarding his affiliations and public statements, Dr. Baba-Ahmed submitted his resignation. While the exact reasons remain personal, the culmination of internal disagreements and public controversies likely influenced his decision to step down.
Implications for the Administration
Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s resignation underscores the challenges faced by the Tinubu administration in maintaining cohesion among its appointees, especially those with strong ties to influential regional groups like the NEF. It also highlights the delicate balance between personal convictions and collective responsibility within the corridors of power.
As the administration continues to navigate complex political landscapes, the importance of clear communication, shared vision, and unified support among its ranks remains paramount to achieving its national objectives.
