Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, has voiced deep frustration over the worsening situation in Northern Nigeria under the current administration. Speaking on April 20, 2025, Baba-Ahmed pointed to widespread insecurity, economic distress, and a lack of political inclusion as major concerns pushing the region to reconsider its place in the national political framework.
“The North is crying,” he said plainly. “Our people are being kidnapped, our markets are empty, and our voices are not being heard.”Baba-Ahmed did not hold back in his critique of the political establishment, accusing leaders of neglecting the region’s most urgent issues. “We gave our support in 2023 expecting real progress. Instead, we are dealing with worsening poverty, fear, and hopelessness,” he said.
He also challenged the narrative that the North must stay silent or compliant, declaring that the region will soon decide its next steps. “In the next six months, we will decide our direction. And let no one forget — no one becomes President of Nigeria without the North.”
In a more pointed comment directed at those in power, he added, “You can’t build a country by ignoring a major part of it. We are not asking for privilege — we are demanding justice, safety, and inclusion.”
Baba-Ahmed called on the youth in Northern Nigeria to rise above political manipulation and get involved in shaping the future. “Young people must not be used and discarded. They should build bridges across regions, work for unity, but also stand firm in defending their communities.”
His remarks come shortly after his resignation from Tinubu’s cabinet.
