Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to refrain from contesting in the 2027 presidential election.
In a discussion on Channels Television, Baba-Ahmed suggested that Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), should step aside to allow for a new generation of Nigerians to lead the country with fresh perspectives and energy. He emphasized that Atiku’s generation has already contributed significantly to nation-building, and it would be beneficial for the former vice president to pass the baton to emerging leaders.
Baba-Ahmed, also the former spokesperson for the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), noted that such a move by Atiku could spark a peaceful and transformative change in Nigerian politics, fostering a culture of merit, unity, and progress. He proposed that Atiku could take on a more elder statesman role, similar to former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.
“If I had the chance, I’d tell Atiku the same thing,” Baba-Ahmed said. “He’s done his bit. He’s been persistent. But now, he should play a fatherly role—help identify and support younger leaders.”
Regarding PDP’s prospects in the 2027 election, Baba-Ahmed expressed optimism, stating that the party could still compete effectively against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) if it fields a younger, visionary candidate.
