Hakeem Baba-Ahmed: Tinubu disconnected from Nigerians’ hardship

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former special adviser on political matters to Vice-President Kashim Shettima, has said President Bola Tinubu is out of touch with the realities facing Nigerians.

Speaking on Arise Television’s The Morning Show, Baba-Ahmed criticised recent comments by the president, who had suggested that Nigerians unable to see progress under his administration were either biased or incapable of recognising development.

Tinubu had earlier responded to critics by saying those who fail to acknowledge his government’s efforts may need “jigi-bola” (eyeglasses) to see clearly.

Reacting, Baba-Ahmed said the president’s remarks raise concerns about the government’s understanding of the country’s economic and security challenges.

“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 said.

He added that despite reforms introduced by the administration, many Nigerians are experiencing worsening living conditions.

“We are more insecure, more hungry, and more desperate,” he said, noting that policies outlined on paper have yet to translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives.

Baba-Ahmed also expressed confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could be defeated in a free and fair election, citing what he described as a disconnect between the government’s perception of its performance and the realities faced by citizens.

“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.

He added that the opposition’s optimism is rooted in what he described as multiple shortcomings of the current administration, despite its claims of strong performance.