Tinubu disconnected from hardship facing Nigerians — Baba-Ahmed
Former Adviser Critiques President’s Disconnect with Nigerian Realities
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former special adviser on political matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent comments regarding the state of the nation. Baba-Ahmed asserted that the president is out of touch with the pressing economic and security challenges facing Nigerians.
During an appearance on The Morning Show, Baba-Ahmed reacted to remarks made by Tinubu, who suggested that citizens failing to recognize progress under his administration may be biased or unable to see development. Last week, Tinubu remarked that those who do not see the “hope” in his policies might require prescription glasses.
“If they don’t want to see the hope… we shall lend them ‘jigi-bola’… eyeglasses,” Tinubu said.
In response, Baba-Ahmed raised concerns about the implications of the president’s statement. He emphasized that it is unrealistic for Nigerian leaders to expect public approval amid widespread poverty and unaccountability.
“There is no way you can live in this country, see the level of poverty and unaccountability, and still expect Nigerians to applaud your performance,” he stated. Baba-Ahmed pointed out that despite the government’s announced reforms, many citizens continue to experience increased insecurity and hunger.
“The reforms on paper do not reflect the reality Nigerians face,” he added.
Baba-Ahmed, who is also the national chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party, expressed confidence in the possibility of defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in a fair election. He highlighted a perceived disconnect between governmental perceptions of success and public sentiment.
“If the president goes into an election with this mindset and allows a free and fair process, then we are home and dry,” he said. “One of the reasons why we feel confident that we can defeat APC is exactly this kind of mindset. You have 10, 12, 20 failings of an administration that is saying we have done fantastic.”
The remarks underscore an ongoing dialogue about the government’s awareness of socioeconomic issues and its responsiveness to public needs.
