Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has raised concerns about the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) allegedly "playing dirty" ahead of the 2027 general elections. In an interview on Arise Television's Prime Time, Baba-Ahmed, a former Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Political Matters, urged opposition parties to remain vigilant. He cited several opposition parties battling legal disputes and internal factionalisation that could affect their participation in the polls.
According to Baba-Ahmed, about five or six of the eight opposition political parties have ongoing court cases, while some others have been factionalised. This has created uncertainty over which factions will eventually participate in the elections. He noted that the opposition cannot afford to be complacent, warning that the APC is not innocent when it comes to playing dirty.
The PRP chairman also mentioned that the legal battles and divisions within opposition parties have made it difficult to determine which factions will participate in the elections. He added that the PRP has learned from past experiences and is taking steps to ensure its candidate can survive any legal hurdles.
Baba-Ahmed has joined other opposition coalition leaders in consultations with former Vice President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. The meeting, which took place at Atiku's residence, aimed to consolidate the opposition ahead of the 2027 elections. The PRP said the engagement was a source of "tremendous inspiration" to the delegation.
The coalition leaders and prospective members recognise the need to strengthen their alliance to defeat the APC in 2027 and give Nigeria a new lease on life. Baba-Ahmed also condemned the reported arrest of five youths in Maiduguri, Borno State, over T-shirts bearing political messages, including "Tinubu Must Go." The police allegedly arrested the suspects over offences including criminal conspiracy and inciting disturbance.
Reacting to the arrests, Baba-Ahmed said the coalition will take up the matter, insisting that citizens should not be subjected to political restrictions over their expressions. The Borno State chapter of the ADC had earlier condemned the arrests and demanded the immediate release of the five men, describing the T-shirts as an expression of political opinion.
The incident has sparked concerns about the limits of free speech in Nigeria. Baba-Ahmed's comments highlight the growing tensions ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition parties seeking to consolidate their efforts to challenge the ruling APC. The outcome of these developments remains to be seen.
Key points
- Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed warns opposition parties to remain vigilant ahead of 2027 elections
- Baba-Ahmed condemns arrest of youths over T-shirts with political messages
- Opposition coalition leaders consult with Atiku Abubakar to strengthen alliance against APC
