Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Criticizes President Tinubu Over Remarks Dismissing Nigerian Economic Hardship and Security Concerns

Former adviser Hakeem Baba-Ahmed slams President Tinubu’s remarks on Nigerian progress, citing a deep disconnect from national poverty and security issues.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 11:02 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Vanguard News

Allegations of Governmental Isolation from Public Reality

Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has issued a sharp rebuke of the current administration, claiming that President Bola Tinubu is profoundly disconnected from the day to day struggles of the Nigerian populace. Speaking during a television broadcast, the former political adviser expressed concern that the leadership is failing to grasp the gravity of the economic and security crises currently gripping the nation. This assessment highlights a growing rift between the presidency's perception of its own performance and the lived experiences of citizens.

The Controversy Surrounding Presidential Eyewear Remarks

The critique stems from recent comments made by President Tinubu, where he dismissed skeptics of his policy direction. The president suggested that critics failing to recognize the "hope" in his reforms might require "jigi-bola," a reference to prescription eyeglasses. Baba-Ahmed argued that such dismissive language illustrates a government that is more interested in optics than addressing the underlying causes of national desperation and poverty.

Economic Reforms Failing to Impact Quality of Life

As the national chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party, Baba-Ahmed contended that the administration’s celebrated reforms exist primarily on paper. He noted that despite official claims of progress, the average Nigerian is feeling more insecure and hungry than in previous years. The lack of accountability regarding national funds was also highlighted as a major point of contention, with Baba-Ahmed suggesting that the government cannot expect applause while the population remains in a state of visible decline.