Controversy Surrounds Baba Ahmed’s Resignation from Tinubu’s Administration

There is ongoing controversy surrounding the rumored resignation of Baba Ahmed, the Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu. Ahmed, who is also a former spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum, has reportedly expressed a desire to step down from his position, though no official resignation has been tendered.

Since news of his possible resignation broke, opinions have been divided over whether he has truly left his post. If confirmed, his departure would be considered a significant blow to President Tinubu’s administration—especially given the current state of his relationship and popularity in Northern Nigeria.

Some Northern supporters of the President have expressed discontent over the economic hardships brought about by his policies, which they believe have adversely affected the region and the country at large.

One such supporter, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, has openly criticized the administration’s policies on several occasions. His criticism eventually culminated in his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). The Tinubu administration is still grappling with the fallout from El-Rufai’s defection, and now faces renewed pressure following Baba Ahmed’s rumored resignation.

A senior APC politician from the North, who spoke to this magazine on condition of anonymity, revealed that the presidency has not been shaken by the rumors. “The supposed resignation of the top presidential aide has not rattled the presidency. However, they do not want such developments at this moment—especially with the growing dissent from the North,” he said.

He added that key figures within Tinubu’s inner circle are working hard to persuade Baba Ahmed to stay on, viewing his continued presence in the administration as a valuable asset.

Meanwhile, one of Tinubu’s aides, when initially contacted, denied the resignation rumors, saying there was no truth to them and that Baba Ahmed himself had debunked them. However, in a later clarification, the aide acknowledged that while Baba Ahmed had indeed expressed a desire to resign, he had not done so officially. As a result, the resignation remains speculative until it is formally submitted.