Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former political adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has expressed profound skepticism and concern regarding the newly formed opposition coalition, the All-Democratic Alliance (ADA), ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Speaking in various interviews, Baba-Ahmed distanced himself from the coalition's formation, observing with 'a lot of worry' that an opportunity to create a strong opposition is being 'messed up' by its current leadership.

Baba-Ahmed’s core criticism revolves around the leadership of the ADA, which he views as self-serving, lacking a genuine national vision, and not offering a better alternative than the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He highlighted that the coalition appears driven by the ambitions of political heavyweights rather than a desire for true transformation. He specifically criticized 'recycled faces' – politicians who have previously served as vice presidents, governors, or ministers and have contested elections multiple times – for putting themselves forward as the face of the opposition.

According to Baba-Ahmed, the public can discern that these familiar figures do not represent a different future and are merely seeking to replace the current administration rather than bringing about meaningful change. He emphasized that the most significant mistake the coalition is making is the insistence of these established politicians to lead, rather than working behind the scenes to support a new generation of leaders. He advocated for a 'generational shift and a political shift' away from those who have dominated the political landscape, urging for the emergence of 'different kinds of Nigerians who can give Nigerians hope.'

Furthermore, Baba-Ahmed questioned the practical feasibility of the ADA registering as a new political party in time for 2027, citing procedural hurdles at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He noted that INEC has not registered new parties for a considerable period and is currently overwhelmed with applications, suggesting that forming an entirely new party to ensure a level playing field would be difficult and time-consuming unless a 'miracle happens.'

Addressing the narrative that northern politicians are solely driving this emerging opposition against a southern president, Baba-Ahmed firmly dismissed such claims. He clarified that the coalition, spearheaded by figures like former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai, is not a northern-centric initiative. He pointed out that southerners are actively involved in these discussions, citing Governor Rotimi Amaechi and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as examples. He also recalled historical precedents, noting that President Bola Tinubu, a southerner, was instrumental in forming the coalition that birthed the APC and defeated the Goodluck Jonathan-led government in 2015, illustrating that political alliances in Nigeria have always involved figures from across the country.

In conclusion, Baba-Ahmed warned that if the opposition fails to present a coherent, people-focused alternative with fresh faces and a clear vision for the nation, they risk inadvertently 'handing over 2027 to President Tinubu.' He stressed that politics should be about addressing the people's problems and inspiring trust, rather than a mere change of guard by familiar political figures.