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Former spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to abandon his ambition of becoming Nigeria’s president.
Baba-Ahmed, who recently resigned as Political Adviser to the President in the Office of the Vice President, shared his views during an appearance on Channels TV.
He stated that Atiku, who has contested the presidency six times, should step back from running and focus on mentoring a new generation of leaders.
In an open letter to President Bola Tinubu on April 23, Baba-Ahmed similarly advised the president to forgo a second-term bid in 2027, warning that seeking re-election would be a “grave mistake” given the country’s political and economic situation. He urged Tinubu to make way for “a new generation of Nigerians” capable of leading the nation with fresh energy and innovative ideas.
When asked in an interview on Channels Television on Thursday, May 1, whether he would make a similar appeal to Atiku, Baba-Ahmed said he would encourage the former vice president to adopt a more statesmanlike role.
“If I had the chance, I’d tell Atiku the same thing. He’s done his bit. He’s been persistent. But now, he should play a fatherly role—help identify and support younger leaders,” Baba-Ahmed stated.
Baba-Ahmed also expressed his belief that the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could be competitive in the 2027 presidential election if it presents a younger, visionary candidate.
“If they field someone younger, with fewer skeletons, better health, and fresh ideas, they could wipe the floor with the APC. This country is hungry for leadership with vision and empathy,” he said.
He emphasized that regional origins should no longer be the basis for political considerations.
“It doesn’t matter where the person comes from. At this point, anyone still focusing on North or South is missing the point. We need competence and vision,” he concluded.
