JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The Arewa Voters’ Assembly (AVA) has criticized Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed for his recent political activities and comments on President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing him of political bias and questioning his record in public office.
In a press release signed by its national coordinator, Comrade Iliasu Musa, and secretary, Comrade Paul Katuka, the group said Baba-Ahmed’s criticism of the president was driven by personal grievances and political interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organization, however, did not provide documentary evidence in the statement to support some of its allegations against the former presidential advisor.
The AVA also disputed a claim attributed to Baba-Ahmed that former President Muhammadu Buhari had described Tinubu negatively, insisting that the allegation had been fabricated for political purposes.
The group challenged Baba-Ahmed to provide evidence to support that claim, adding that people close to the late former president could clarify the nature of his relationship with the former leader.
The assembly also accused Baba-Ahmed of pursuing a political agenda against Tinubu and said his recent activities were aimed at mobilizing opposition to the administration.
AVA questions Baba-Ahmed’s public service record
The group questioned Baba-Ahmed’s contributions to the well-being of ordinary Nigerians, particularly disadvantaged communities in northern Nigeria, during his years in public office.
He cited his roles in government, including his tenure as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Secretary to the Kaduna State Government and Policy Advisor in the Office of the Vice President.
The organization also questioned its role during the administration of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, particularly its handling of information relating to the former president’s illness.
The AVA said Baba-Ahmed failed to adequately speak out on issues affecting ordinary citizens during his time in government.
He also raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the decline of the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), referring to the hiring of Baba-Ahmed’s younger brother into the organization.
However, the statement presents no documentary evidence linking Baba-Ahmed or his brother to any financial wrongdoing involving the former power company.
The group also criticized Baba-Ahmed’s alleged involvement in the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), arguing that his association with the party did not reflect the political traditions established by some of its historical leaders.
He named Balarabe Musa, Lawal Dambazau, Ammani Inuwa and Halle Jani among individuals described as prominent figures in the party’s early years.
The group raises questions about the Kaduna state administration
The AVA also questioned Baba-Ahmed’s role as secretary to the Kaduna state government during a period it described as characterized by alleged arrogance and arbitrary actions against public officials and citizens.
According to the statement, the administration at the time was accused of firing workers without adequately taking into account due process and detaining citizens without trial.
The group made specific reference to the detention of Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky and the alleged dismissal of civil servants without compensation.
He accused Baba-Ahmed of failing to publicly challenge the administration’s actions while serving in a senior government position.
The statement, however, did not include supporting documents or responses from Baba-Ahmed regarding the allegations.
AVA raises concerns about 2027 political alliances
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the group said Baba-Ahmed’s recent political pledges were part of efforts to build an opposition coalition against Tinubu.
He said the former presidential adviser was pursuing political deals that could undermine the president’s reelection ambitions.
The assembly also said Baba-Ahmed’s criticism was linked to his claim that he had no direct access to Tinubu while serving as a political advisor in the vice president’s office.
The group said it believed the disagreement reflected political grievances rather than governance concerns, although it provided no independent evidence to establish Baba-Ahmed’s motives.
The AVA also accused opposition figures of attempting to frustrate Nigeria’s efforts to procure weapons from the United States for the country’s military.
It claimed that political interests were placed above national security, but the statement provided no evidence showing the involvement of Baba-Ahmed or other named individuals in any attempt to hinder the arms purchase.
The allegations could not be independently verified based on the information in the statement.
The group defends the Tinubu administration
The AVA defended Tinubu’s administration, arguing that the government was pursuing reforms in several sectors, including the economy, infrastructure, education and security.
He argued that criticism of the administration should be based on verifiable facts rather than accusations or political disagreements.
The group also accused some Northern political figures of failing to adequately address the challenges ordinary citizens face while holding positions of authority.
He called on Baba-Ahmed to identify specific achievements of his years in government that directly improved the well-being of ordinary Nigerians, especially people in Northern Nigeria.
The organization has said it will work with other groups to oppose what it describes as attempts to destabilize the country for political gain ahead of the 2027 elections.
The AVA urged political actors to prioritize national unity, security and public well-being, warning against rhetoric that could exacerbate ethnic and religious divisions.
The statement was signed by Comrade Iliasu Musa, National Coordinator of the Arewa Voters’ Assembly, and Comrade Paul Katuka, Secretary of the organisation.
