Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who recently left his role as a special adviser to the vice president, has asked President Bola Tinubu not to run for re-election in 2027. In an open letter, Baba-Ahmed said it’s time for a younger generation of Nigerians to take over and lead with fresh ideas and new energy.

He encouraged Tinubu to think about his legacy and use his power to improve the lives of Nigerians, rather than focus on the next election. “Don’t let 2027 distract you,” he warned. “You still have time to make real change, but not if you spend it chasing votes.”

Baba-Ahmed said Tinubu’s team has failed to deliver good governance. He argued that the president’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” is more of a campaign slogan than a real plan to fix Nigeria’s problems. He also said that over half of the people in Tinubu’s cabinet are not qualified for their roles.

He warned that if Tinubu continues to focus on politics instead of solving problems, he could lose public support and damage his legacy. “Winning another term without changing your leadership style may only lead to more failure,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed painted a bleak picture of Nigeria’s current state, pointing out that different regions of the country are feeling ignored and frustrated. He said the north is suffering due to insecurity and poverty, while other regions like the east and south are either disengaged or divided.

He also criticized Tinubu’s style of leadership, calling it “closed-off and exclusive.” According to Baba-Ahmed, many Nigerians feel the president is not listening to their concerns, and his frequent travels abroad give the impression that he is not fully focused on leading the country.

He said the president’s communication team is also not helping. “You need a strong message that brings Nigerians together,” he said, but added that Tinubu’s spokespersons are confusing people instead of explaining policies clearly.

Baba-Ahmed ended by saying the north will announce its position on the 2027 presidency in six months. “No one can become president without the support of the north,” he said.