Baba-Ahmed Slams Tinubu’s Economic Policies, Advises Against Re-Election Bid.
A former Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, stating that Nigeria’s economy is performing worse under his administration than it did under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, Baba-Ahmed expressed his concerns about the country’s economic situation, citing the removal of petrol subsidy and the floating of the naira as key factors behind the rising inflation. According to him, inflation has risen from 22.41% when Tinubu assumed office to 34.6% by November 2024.
Baba-Ahmed also questioned the accuracy of government statistics, suggesting that the administration’s data may not reflect the reality on the ground. He expressed scepticism about the president’s awareness of the country’s conditions, asking, “Do our leaders actually know how our people live?”
The former adviser advised Tinubu not to seek re-election in 2027, suggesting that the president should focus on fixing the economy and addressing insecurity during his remaining time in office. Baba-Ahmed advocated for a generational shift in leadership, recommending that a younger, more energetic, and committed leader take over.
He expressed disappointment with Tinubu’s performance, saying that he had expected more from the president given his past experience as Governor of Lagos. Baba-Ahmed also revealed that he had resigned from his position as Special Adviser due to dissatisfaction with his role and the lack of opportunity to effect change.
The former adviser was firm in his stance, stating that he would not support Tinubu’s re-election bid and instead wants to see a new leader who can bring about positive change to the country.