Paul Ibe, media adviser to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, has criticised George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), for suggesting that northerners with presidential ambitions should wait until 2031.
Akume, on Sunday, urged northern politicians to allow President Bola Tinubu to complete a potential second term.
Responding during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ibe described Akume’s statement as “irresponsible” and accused him of attempting to “kidnap the aspiration” of Atiku and other northern leaders.
He argued that Akume was unqualified to make such a declaration, adding that the country faces serious challenges that require focus beyond political manoeuvring.
“It appears that Akume’s job in that interview was very clear: kidnap the aspiration of Atiku Abubakar and any other northerners. That was irresponsible of him to say, the thing he said,” Ibe stated.
He further questioned the appropriateness of playing politics amidst issues such as rising inflation, high cost of living and the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
