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Category: Politics

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Steps Down as Tinubu’s Political Adviser

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Steps Down As Tinubu’s Political Adviser

Fola Badmus07 mins

Impeccable sources in the presidency confirmed yesterday that the former spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) tendered his resignation about two weeks ago. The sources said Dr. Baba-Ahmed did not provide details of the reasons for his decision, only stating that it was on personal grounds. However, as of the time of filing this report, it was unclear whether the presidency had accepted his resignation. Baba-Ahmed was appointed Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima in September 2023. Over the past 17 months, he has represented the presidency at several public fora, including a recent national conference themed: “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity”, which held from 28th to 29th January, 2025 in Abuja. Clash with Matawalle over NEF Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s role in the presidency drew criticism at certain points. A notable criticism came from the current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle. In April 2024, Matawalle appeared to have taken an aim at Dr. Baba-Ahmed, when he said northern appointees must not remain silent in the face of intimidation or misrepresentation of the Tinubu administration. His remarks came after Baba-Ahmed criticised Matawalle’s dismissal of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) as a “political paperweight”. That position by the minister was in reaction to the group’s statement that the North had made a mistake voting for Tinubu in 2023. Baba-Ahmed had argued that the Tinubu administration would have been better served if Matawalle had highlighted his own achievements as a minister—along with those of other northern appointees—rather than attacking the NEF. “Scathing criticism of NEF by the junior minister of defence, Matawalle, is ill-advised. He could have done a better job for this administration if he identified contributions of especially northern ministers and other appointees like me to improving security and reducing poverty in the North,” Baba-Ahmed wrote. Matawalle fired back, insisting that government appointees had a duty to defend and promote the administration they served. “Dr Baba-Ahmed’s relationship and affinity with the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) is well known,” Matawalle said, adding that: “As an appointee of this administration, it is his responsibility to work for its success, protect and defend the government against unjust and vicious attacks from those who hide under ethnic and other primordial interests to heat up the polity for myopic reasons”. The minister stressed further that: “Every appointee of President Tinubu, including Dr. Baba-Ahmed, owes the government a duty to promote, elucidate, and advance its good works and commendable efforts across all sectors. “As appointees from the North, we must take a stand, be unequivocal, and be counted among those working for the success of this administration. This is not the time to keep quiet in the face of intimidation and misrepresentation of the efforts and achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, the junior minister maintained. Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed at a glance Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed (born September 11, 1955) is a Nigerian retired senior civil servant and former Chief of Staff to ex-Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki. He hails from Kaduna State. A practising Muslim, he has held several key positions in public service and governance. Baba-Ahmed studied at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, the London School of Economics, and the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. He began his career as a lecturer at the then University of Sokoto (now Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto) before joining the Kaduna State Civil Service. He later transferred to the Federal Civil Service, where he rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary. During his career, Baba-Ahmed served as Permanent Secretary in various capacities, including in the Presidency and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He also held the position of Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). A reform-minded public servant, he also served as Secretary to the Kaduna State Government. His contributions to governance earned him the national honour of Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR). Baba-Ahmed is regarded as an elder statesman in Northern Nigeria. Before his appointment as Special Adviser on Political Matters to the President in the Office of the Vice President, he was the Director of Publicity and Advocacy for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), where he spoke openly against policies that were perceived to be against the interests of the North, and of the various parts of Nigeria.

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Court Bars Interviews in Natasha’s Case Against Akpabio

Fola Badmus03 mins

Justice Binta Fatima Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a directive barring all parties involved in the ongoing lawsuit filed by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and three other defendants from granting press interviews or making public statements regarding the subject matter of the case. The ruling, delivered on Friday, came in response to a complaint by Akpabio’s legal counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), who raised concerns that the plaintiff, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, had been actively granting interviews to various television stations. These interviews focused on the details of her case, which is currently before the court, and were seen as potentially influencing public perception of the legal proceedings. In her decision, Justice Nyako emphasized the importance of ensuring that the case proceeds without undue external interference. She stated that no party, nor their lawyers, should engage in public discussions or give interviews regarding the ongoing case, in order to maintain the integrity of the judicial process. The ruling reflects the court’s commitment to preventing any actions that could prejudice the case or undermine the fairness of the trial. This injunction aims to safeguard the legal process from being influenced by public opinion or media portrayal, ensuring that the case is decided based solely on the facts and legal arguments presented in court. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is not swayed by outside factors. The decision has drawn attention to the potential impact of media coverage on high-profile cases and reinforces the principle that court matters should be determined in the courtroom, not in the court of public opinion. As the case continues, it remains to be seen how this ruling will affect the strategies of the parties involved.

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Akpabio Punished Natasha, But Saraki Never Punished Him for the Same Offense

Akpabio Punished Natasha, But Saraki Didn’t for Same Offense -Senator Abbo

Fola Badmus04 mins

Former Adamawa North senator, Ishaku Elisha Abbo, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of acting like an “emperor” in handling the sexual harassment allegation raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Speaking on Arise TV on Wednesday, Abbo criticised Akpabio for allegedly ordering Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension from the Senate, contrasting it with his own past encounter with Akpabio in the 8th Senate. He recalled a verbal altercation between Akpabio and then-Senate President Bukola Saraki over seat arrangements, emphasising that Akpabio was not suspended. “In Natasha’s case, Akpabio acted like an emperor and ordered her suspension for six months,” Abbo stated. The former senator also revisited his ousting from the Senate, calling it an act of “judicial banditry.” He alleged that the judge who ruled against him knew the decision was unjust, revealing that an intermediary was later sent to his house to plead with him. “The judge ruled that elections took place in five local governments but cancelled results in two, affecting 203 polling units, without ordering a rerun. That was outright robbery,” he said. Abbo further criticised the National Judicial Council (NJC) for its inability to discipline appellate-level judges, advocating for restructuring the body to ensure accountability. When questioned about his controversial past, including an incident where he was filmed slapping a store owner in Abuja, Abbo claimed the video excluded the part where his sister was allegedly assaulted. In 2019, Abbo faced widespread criticism after being filmed assaulting a woman in a intimacy gadget shop in Abuja. The court subsequently imposed a fine of N50 million on the lawmaker for the assault. Some months later, Abbo was again caught on camera, this time assaulting a man named Silas Daniel in his hometown of Mubi. Silas, a former Personal Assistant (PA) to Abbo, was reportedly attacked with machetes, daggers, and clubs by thugs acting under the lawmaker’s orders. On January 4, 2023, SaharaReporters revealed that policemen from the Federal Capital Territory, acting under Senator Abbo’s orders, detained freelance journalist Yau Saeed Mubi. Mubi was arrested on December 27 following a publication criticising the lack of good governance in Adamawa North, which Abbo represented at the time.

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Akpabio to Abbo: You Are Bitter and Desperate for Political Relevance

Akpabio to Abbo: You Are Bitter and Desperate for Political Relevance

Fola Badmus17 mins

The attention of the Office of the President of the Senate has been drawn to another round of spurious and malicious accusations by Mr. Elisha Abbo, who unlawfully represented Adamawa North Senatorial District save a judicial intervention. He has again sought to blame the President of the Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, for the travail of his judicial sanction that occasioned his ouster from the Senate. It is sad and regrettable that despite publicly retracting a similar allegation in 2023—after admitting that his earlier accusation was “premature and based on the available information at our disposal”—Mr. Abbo has once again embarked on a campaign of misinformation and blame transfer. Following a discussion with the Senate President last year, Mr. Abbo himself acknowledged that Senator Akpabio had “no involvement” in the judicial process that led to his removal. It is puzzling that he would now return to the same baseless allegations he once renounced. For the avoidance of doubt, the Court of Appeal, after a thorough legal process, ruled unequivocally that Mr. Abbo’s presence in the Red Chamber was in error. The court determined that he was not validly elected as the Senator for Adamawa North, and consequently, he was removed. The court acted in accordance with the extant laws and the Constitution within its sacred duty to uphold the rule of law. Senator Akpabio, a seasoned lawyer and democrat, holds the independence of the judiciary in the highest regard and would never interfere in its processes. It is therefore both illogical and irresponsible for Mr. Abbo to now turn around and allege that the Senate President influenced a court judgment—a judgment which he himself accepted at the time and for which he expressed contrition for his earlier unfounded claims. ( see Punch newspaper of 18th October, 2023) Mr. Abbo has also sought to create the impression that he was unjustly denied official benefits following his ouster. He claims entitlement to salaries, allowances, and even an official vehicle, despite the court’s declaration that his tenure was null and void ab initio. In matters of financial and administrative processing, it must be stated that the Senate President only approves payments that have been duly vetted and forwarded by the appropriate administrative units, in line with extant laws, Senate procedures, and standard due diligence practices. If any of Mr. Abbo’s claims for payment did not reach the desk of the Senate President, it is because they failed to meet these lawful standards—not because of any personal or political vendetta. It is unfortunate that instead of accepting the consequences of his legal and political failings, Mr. Abbo continues to resort to media theatrics and reckless finger-pointing. Even more telling is his record of public conduct. Nigerians will recall that in 2019, he was caught on video assaulting a female citizen in Abuja—an incident for which he was ordered by a competent court to pay N50 million in damages. This is a matter of public record and speaks volumes about his temperament and disposition. His recent outbursts about unpaid travels and imagined plots further reinforce the conclusion that his actions are driven not by facts or principle, but by bitterness and desperation to remain politically relevant. These claims are not only baseless, but they reek of grievance and a refusal to accept personal responsibility for his removal and loss of public trust. Senator Godswill Akpabio remains focused on the noble task of nation-building, providing purposeful leadership in the Senate, and strengthening democratic institutions—especially the independence of the judiciary. He will not be distracted by the antics of individuals who seek to rewrite history to mask personal failures. We urge Mr. Abbo to reflect deeply, respect the rule of law, and focus on rebuilding the confidence of his constituents if he hopes to return to public life. Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when its actors show maturity, responsibility, and an abiding respect for the truth.

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Kebbi Special Advisers Reaffirm Support for Governor Idris

Kebbi Special Advisers Reaffirm Support for Governor Idris

Fola Badmus02 mins

The Kebbi State Special Advisers’ Forum, comprising 142 members, has expressed unwavering support for Governor Nasir Idris. During a Sallah homage at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Haliru Bunza praised the governor’s inclusive governance, highlighting significant advancements in infrastructure and human capacity development. Dr. Bunza noted the unprecedented socioeconomic growth under Governor Idris, emphasizing the historic achievement of appointing 142 Special Advisers as a commitment to inclusive governance. He also lauded the governor’s open-door policy, which has positively impacted the community, and assured continued backing from the forum.​Trending News Additionally, Special Advisers Alhaji Lawali Na Allah and Alhaji Arzika Muhammad Dan Atto expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. They requested further engagement with the administration and urged the prompt payment of their approved Furniture Allowance. In response, Governor Idris approved their requests, directing the Secretary to the State Government and the state Accountant General to ensure all outstanding Furniture Allowances are settled by April 2, 2025. He also prioritized regular meetings with the Special Advisers to enhance collaboration.​ Governor Idris commended the Special Advisers for their significant contributions and reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance. He pledged to continue fulfilling campaign promises while maintaining open communication with all stakeholders. The governor also reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to citizens’ welfare, highlighting the successful implementation of the new national minimum wage and a focus on delivering democratic dividends to all residents, regardless of political or ethnic backgrounds

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Tinubu Should Restore Fubara, Administrator Unconstitutional – NBA

Rivers’ Situation Can Lead To Feelings Of Depression – Fubara

Fola Badmus02 mins

The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed that the political climate in the state could lead to feelings of depression. Speaking with Muslim leaders who visited him at his residence in Port Harcourt, Fubara stated: “As humans, we may feel somewhat depressed due to the situation and what we are witnessing, but there may be deeper forces at play that are beyond our understanding. Despite this, we continue to give glory to God. During this season of joy, love, and sacrifice, I want you to know that I share in your celebration. I remain optimistic that we will emerge stronger. Our vision for this state is a society where no one is oppressed. This is a crucial part of our struggle. Please remain patient and do not let anyone provoke you, as their goal is to cause division and disrupt our peace. They seek to undermine your livelihoods, but we will not allow that. We will continue to uphold peace and respect for the authorities, ensuring that Rivers State remains a model for others in Nigeria.”

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Police Urge Natasha to Cancel Her Homecoming Event

Police Urge Natasha to Cancel Her Homecoming Event

Fola Badmus03 mins

The police have urged suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan to call off her scheduled Sallah rally in Kogi Central Senatorial District. The Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya, insisted the rally violates the State Government’s directive on Monday, which bans political gatherings. The statement reads, “Following the intelligence report on security threats in Kogi State and the subsequent ban on all forms of Rally and procession by the Kogi State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Police Command has called on the organisers of planned rally at Okene to cancel such event in the interest of the peace in Kogi State. “The call for cancellation becomes necessary, noting that intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause disturbance of peace in the State. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying. “In view of the security threat received on the planned rally, the Kogi State Police Command is therefore advising the organisers to cancel the event so as to avoid any breakdown of law and order in the State. As the Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of law on any one who causes disturbance of peace and order in the State.” Despite the State Government’s proclamation on Monday banning political gatherings and rallies, Akpoti-Uduaghan has insisted on proceeding with the “homecoming.”She emphasised that her visit is solely to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with constituents.

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Okonjo-Iweala, Sen. Natasha, Others Bag Arise News Awards

Fola Badmus03 mins

World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and other bagged Arise News Women Making Impact awards in Lagos on Monday. The General Council of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreed on 29 November by consensus to reappoint Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term, set to begin on 1 September 2025. This decision reflects broad recognition of her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO. The reappointment process, initiated on 8 October 2024, was overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council. With no additional nominations submitted by the 8 November deadline, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stood as the sole candidate. The process was conducted in a fully open and transparent manner, adhering to the WTO’s “Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General” (WT/L/509). Similarly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended for six months after submitting a petition was among the awardees. Akpoti-Uduaghan said she was being punished for speaking out against the system and that she now feared for her and her two-year-old’s safety as her security detail had been stripped. “The Nigerian Senate operates like a cult. The Senate president runs the Senate like a dictator, not a democrat. There is no freedom of speech, there is no freedom of expression and anyone who dares to go against him gets cut to size,” the 45-year-old said in the first TV interview since her suspension. Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleged that the sexual harassment started in 2023, when she visited Akpabio’s country home with her husband. She said the Akpabio “squeezed her hand suggestively” and said “I will make an opportunity for us to come here and have a good moment”. Akpoti-Uduaghan one of four female senators in a parliament of 109 members and she is also the first female senator in her state. Akpoti-Uduaghan told the BBC that she no longer had access to security as a result of the suspension.

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