Why I Resigned: Hakeem Baba-Ahmed on Refusing to Collect Salaries Without Working

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who previously served as the Advisor on Political Affairs to Vice President Kashim Shettima, has detailed the reasons behind his resignation from his position at the Presidency.

Baba-Ahmed stated that he couldn’t simply occupy the Presidential position and draw salaries without being active, which led him to decide on stepping down.

He has stepped down from his role as the Special Adviser for Political Affairs to the president within the Vice President’s office.

During an interview with Arise Television’s Prime Time yesterday, Baba-Ahmed stated: "Having the role of Special Adviser to the president within the Vice President's office came with immense responsibilities. It seemed significant on paper, yet in reality, it didn't materialize as expected, which was quite frustrating."

The framework of the Nigerian presidency has remained consistent perhaps since 1999 or throughout the military era.

“A lot of what the second-in-command executes relies heavily on the dynamic between the first and second roles, as well as the setups, influence levels, and the type of groups surrounding the leader. Much also hinges on the actions taken by the person in the top spot.”

If the president believes that the Office of the Vice President isn't essential to their success or not particularly helpful, then they might as well remain idle. This situation has occurred numerous times, and essentially, this was my experience when I stepped down.

There wasn't much to do; I wasn't accustomed to being idle, and there were many tasks at hand. I had the opportunity to get involved and share my modest contributions and thoughts, yet I didn't seize it. It wouldn't feel right for me to simply draw a paycheck without putting in some effort.

I couldn't obtain wages without putting in work – Hakeem Baba-Ahmed explains his resignation