2027: North Will Announce Its Preferred Candidate In 6 Months — Baba-Ahmed
A former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has stated that the Northern region will determine its presidential support for the 2027 elections within the next six months. He emphasized that no candidate can secure the presidency without the backing of the North.
In a video interview conducted in Hausa, Baba-Ahmed, who was joined by Usman Yusuf, a former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme, expressed concerns about the current state of the nation. He called on Northerners to be wary of divisive and misleading politicians as the next general elections approach.
He remarked, “In the coming six months, the North will clarify its position. If the rest of the country wishes to align with us, that is acceptable. If not, we will chart our own course. It is evident that no one can ascend to the presidency of Nigeria without the support of the North. We seek a government that comprehends our challenges and is capable of addressing them. After eight years under Buhari, we have gained insight. Now, in a new administration, we find ourselves still lamenting. Is lamentation all we are capable of?” Baba-Ahmed questioned.
The former presidential adviser noted the significant suffering endured by the North during the Boko Haram insurgency, which impacted all communities, including Muslims, Christians, Fulani, Baju, and others, underscoring the necessity for unity. “Prior to Buhari’s presidency, Boko Haram was attacking mosques, churches, and cities like Abuja and Lagos. That was a time for Northerners to come together. Today, no politician can simply appear and expect Northerners to comply. Who are you?” he challenged.
He cautioned against the further marginalization of the North, warning that ongoing neglect of the region would lead to repercussions. “If there are plans to manipulate the election, caution is advised. Such actions would not bode well for Nigeria. The North is vigilant; elders, the populace, and interest groups will soon declare, ‘enough is enough.’ The injustices and exclusion must cease.”
Baba-Ahmed urged the Northern region to transcend identity politics, emphasizing that decisions should be based on competence and integrity.
“We are tired of being deceived into voting based on religion or ethnicity. That era is over. We just want a right leader, we just want someone who will solve our problems,” he said.
