As per a report from Daily Trust News, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a former Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, has urged ex-Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to proceed with caution given the rising accusations against him. Baba-Ahmed pointed out that El-Rufai’s aggressive approach in recent times has done little to alleviate his legal and political troubles and may actually exacerbate them.
These comments were made during his appearance on Channels Television, where he emphasized the importance of moderation and strategic adjustments. He conveyed that this is a crucial time for El-Rufai to concentrate on addressing his legal issues instead of escalating political conflicts.
The former adviser expressed that El-Rufai seems hesitant to retract despite the seriousness of the charges he is facing. “Right now, it would serve you better to remain unburdened and free rather than to engage in actions that might attract more scrutiny and opposition,” Baba-Ahmed told journalists.
He elaborated that the legal situation surrounding El-Rufai is both intentional and robust. “The government that is investigating these claims is very determined. The primary focus should be on resolving these issues via the appropriate legal routes rather than fueling disputes or participating in political clashes,” Baba-Ahmed commented.
Baba-Ahmed pointed out that the former governor’s current behavior has not only heightened aggression but also made his circumstances more complex. “When you find yourself in a hole, the best advice is to stop digging. The primary rule when you’re in a hole is to cease digging,” he remarked, emphasizing that El-Rufai’s aggressive position has inadvertently strengthened the opposition against him.
Experts have noted that El-Rufai, who previously served as the minister of the Federal Capital Territory and as the governor of Kaduna, has become more outspoken in the past few months, frequently making critical remarks about political rivals and government bodies. While some supporters view this as a sign of determination, critics caution that it could escalate tensions and impede his legal and political recuperation.
Baba-Ahmed stressed that political effectiveness is greatest when a leader is not caught up in unnecessary disputes. “You are more valuable to your party and yourself as a liberated individual, not weighed down by allegations and needless conflicts,” he stated….See More
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