Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who serves as the spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has accepted the position of Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice-President Kashim Shettima. This move has generated criticism on social media.
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed is the elder brother of Datti Baba-Ahmed, who ran as the vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the February 25 election. In a statement issued on Monday, Hakeem confirmed his appointment and expressed his readiness to serve in this capacity.
He stated, "It is time to make it public that I have accepted the call to serve as Special Adviser (Political) to the VP, Kashim Shettima. This is not the time for fence-sitting or criticism when you can be useful in turning the country round. I am honored and humbled. Please pray for me and Nigeria."
Critics on social media expressed their disapproval of his decision, suggesting that serving in the current government validates the alleged wrongdoings associated with it. Some questioned the effectiveness of his advisory role, given the limited influence of the vice-president in shaping policies.
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed's appointment comes at a time when Nigeria is facing numerous political and governance challenges, and his decision to join the administration has sparked debates about the role of intellectuals and activists in shaping the country's future
