Leadnaija
The Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Vice President, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to refrain from contesting in future elections, urging them instead to support a new generation of leaders.
Speaking during a recent interview, Baba-Ahmed said it was time for the political class to play more of a mentoring role, rather than continuously seeking power.
“I don’t think he (Atiku) should aspire to lead this country. I think he should be a father figure and bring in new blood,” Baba-Ahmed said.
He added that the same advice applied to other long-standing political figures.
“Amaechi should do the same thing. And El-Rufai—if he thinks he can handle his ego—should be part of this.”
Baba-Ahmed’s comments come amid intensifying debates about political succession and the need to empower younger voices in Nigeria’s leadership space, especially ahead of the 2027 general election.
Dr. Baba-Ahmed is the elder brother of Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed.
