By Abubakar Yunusa
A political advocacy group based in northern Nigeria, the Kaduna Solidarity Vanguard, has criticised the recent resignation of Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed from his position as Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, describing the move as self-serving rather than principled.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Lawal Tanimu, the group accused Dr Baba-Ahmed of engaging in political opportunism and betraying the trust of northern constituents.
They argued that his decision to step down was not motivated by integrity or a deep commitment to public service, but rather by personal ambition and frustration over dwindling political influence.
“This is not a principled stand or an act of integrity,” the statement read.
“It is a calculated move by an individual who has consistently prioritised personal gain over the interests of the people he claims to represent.”
The group alleged that Baba-Ahmed’s tenure was marked by inaction on key northern issues, including tax reforms and economic challenges, and that his post-election alliance with the current administration contradicted his previous criticisms.
His resignation, the group claims, follows a realisation that the Vice President’s office has been politically marginalised, pointing to the modest budgetary allocation of ₦36 billion as evidence of its limited influence.
This, they argue, triggered Baba-Ahmed’s decision to exit and rebrand himself as an activist.
“Faced with these constraints, Dr Baba-Ahmed chose to abandon his post, opting instead to return to the public sphere in what we believe is an attempt to maintain relevance,” Tanimu added.
The Kaduna Solidarity Vanguard further warned the northern electorate to remain vigilant, urging them to reject what they described as “fake and deceptive activism” from political figures with a track record of self-interest.
“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?” the statement asked.
The Vanguard’s comments reflect growing dissatisfaction among grassroots organisations over leadership accountability and representation.
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