Lere Olayinka, spokesperson and Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has stirred controversy with a pointed attack on Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former presidential aide and influential Northern political commentator.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Olayinka wrote:
“One man from Mauritania is going up and down, telling real Nigerians in the North what should happen in 2027.”
Though he didn’t name Baba-Ahmed directly, the innuendo was unmistakable, referencing long-circulated but unproven claims about Baba-Ahmed’s ancestry. The comment appears to be a response to Baba-Ahmed’s recent critiques and projections about Nigeria’s political direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, formerly a Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, has been a consistent voice within the Northern Elders Forum. Known for advocating for political equity, transparency, and good governance, his views have often challenged both ruling and opposition party structures.
Olayinka’s attack is indicative of growing political unease as the 2027 general elections approach. It also reflects broader issues within Nigeria’s political discourse, where personal attacks and ethnic insinuations often substitute for issue-based engagement.
Key Context:
- Baba-Ahmed resigned from his VP advisory role in 2024, resuming a more public and independent posture.
- Northern political alignment will be crucial for 2027, and figures like Baba-Ahmed are increasingly influential in shaping regional narratives.
- Olayinka’s remarks could signal Wike-aligned political circles pushing back against critics or alternative power blocs.
Ethnic undertones in Olayinka’s jab have drawn criticism online, with observers cautioning against divisive rhetoric that could inflame tensions ahead of the election cycle.
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