A political advocacy group, the Kaduna Solidarity Vanguard, has openly criticized Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed following his recent resignation as Special Adviser on Political Affairs to Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The group described the resignation as a strategic ploy driven by self-interest rather than a principled decision.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its chairman, Lawal Tanimu, the group suggested that Baba-Ahmed’s action should be viewed through a more critical lens, urging the public not to overlook what it described as underlying motives.
“Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed’s recent political maneuvering raises significant concerns regarding the gullibility of the northern populace. His decision to align with the government post-elections, despite a history of neglecting the region’s challenges, including critical tax reforms, suggests a troubling disregard for the electorate’s discernment,” the group stated.
The statement further alleged that Baba-Ahmed’s political choices reflect a pattern of self-serving behavior, calling into question his commitment to public service.
“This opportunistic shift, perceived as an attempt to manipulate public sentiment, undermines the integrity of political engagement. The northern people, having endured substantial hardships, deserve leaders who genuinely advocate for their interests rather than those who seek to exploit their trust for personal gain. Such deception will inevitably be met with resistance.
“Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s tenure in office has been characterized by a series of antics that have now been thoroughly exposed. His resignation is not a principled stand or an act of integrity; rather, it is a calculated move by an individual who has consistently prioritized personal gain over the interests of the people he claims to represent.
“It is evident that his initial acceptance of the appointment was driven by the allure of financial rewards, rather than a genuine commitment to serving the Nigerian populace.”
The group also linked Baba-Ahmed’s exit to what it claims is the diminishing influence of the Vice President in the current administration.
“It is important to highlight that Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s departure comes on the heels of a realization that the Vice President himself has been sidelined in the current political landscape,” the statement read.
With an office budget reportedly pegged at N36 billion, the group asserted that Baba-Ahmed had lost confidence in the administration’s capacity to support his political vision, prompting his return to public advocacy.
“We must question his motives: is he truly committed to the cause of the people, or is he merely seeking to continue his pattern of deception among the gullible segments of our population?
“We, at the Kaduna Solidarity Vanguard, call upon our fellow Northerners to remain vigilant against the tide of fake and deceptive activism that figures like Dr. Baba-Ahmed represent.
“His brand of politics, which thrives on manipulation and self-interest, has no place in the North. We must reject the notion that individuals who have shown a willingness to exploit their positions for personal gain can be trusted to advocate for our communities.”
The group urged citizens to be discerning in their support of public figures, emphasizing the need for political engagement based on sincerity and accountability.
“As we navigate the complexities of our political landscape, let us remember that true activism is rooted in authenticity and a profound commitment to the welfare of the people. We must hold our leaders accountable and ensure that those who seek to represent us do so with integrity and a genuine desire to uplift our communities.
“We urge all Northerners to be discerning in their support of public figures. Let us not be swayed by the hollow rhetoric of individuals like Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who have demonstrated that their allegiance lies not with the people, but with their own ambitions.
“Together, we can foster a political environment that values transparency, accountability, and genuine service to the people of the North,” the statement concluded.
