The National Chairman of the People Redemption Party (PRP), Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has accused President Bola Tinubu of transferring political influence and rights traditionally held by Northern Nigerians to the South-West region, claiming this shift is happening without resistance due to the alignment of northern leaders with the president. In a recent interview on Symfoni TV, Baba-Ahmed expressed concern over what he described as a strategic realignment in Nigeria’s power structure that could undermine regional balance and equity.
Baba-Ahmed argued that the North’s historical role in national politics is being eroded under the current administration, particularly because key northern figures have chosen to support President Tinubu’s leadership. He emphasized that this alignment allows the South-West to consolidate more control over federal appointments, policy decisions, and economic opportunities. According to him, this development is not accidental but part of a broader pattern of marginalization that threatens national cohesion.
He further stated that the lack of pushback from northern leaders is enabling this shift, which he believes could deepen regional disparities and fuel discontent across the country. “When the North does not stand up for its interests, it opens the door for others to take over,” Baba-Ahmed said during the interview. His remarks reflect growing anxiety among some political observers about the distribution of power in Nigeria’s federal system.
The PRP leader’s comments come at a time when questions are being raised about regional representation in government appointments and public sector positions. Critics argue that the South-West, particularly Yoruba-dominated states, have seen an increase in influence since Tinubu assumed office, while the North, especially the Northeast and Northwest, feels sidelined in key decision-making processes.
Baba-Ahmed also highlighted the importance of unity and equitable power-sharing among Nigeria’s regions, warning that continued imbalance could lead to instability. He called on northern leaders to re-examine their alliances and advocate more forcefully for their communities’ interests. “Power should not be concentrated in one zone,” he stressed. “Every region must feel represented and valued.”
His statement has sparked debate across social media and political circles, with some agreeing with his assessment and others dismissing it as partisan rhetoric. Nevertheless, the issue of regional equity remains a sensitive topic in Nigeria’s political discourse.
As Nigeria continues to navigate its complex federal structure, Baba-Ahmed’s remarks underscore the ongoing tension between regional aspirations and national unity. The coming months may reveal whether these concerns will lead to policy changes or remain confined to political discourse.
Leave a Comment