By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A member of the Northern Elders Forum and National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has criticised the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) over its proposed Security Trust Fund, saying major decisions affecting citizens should involve wider consultation. Baba-Ahmed spoke while reacting to the Middle Belt Forum’s (MBF) opposition to the proposed fund, according to an interview with our correspondent.
He said political leaders often act as though they have “immutable mandates” to make decisions on sensitive issues without adequately considering public opinion. “Our political leaders today think they have immutable mandates to decide vital and sensitive issues affecting our lives and livelihood,” Baba-Ahmed said, citing the debate over state police and other major policy decisions.
The NSGF Board of Trustees for the proposed Security Trust Fund was inaugurated on July 8, 2026. The initiative is expected to raise funds from states to support security operations across the region.The MBF has opposed the initiative, arguing that states should instead invest directly in local security, rebuild communities affected by violence and support victims.
Baba-Ahmed said broader consultations with groups and stakeholders across the North could have addressed concerns about the management of the proposed fund and the diverse security challenges facing the region. He, however, expressed doubt that the MBF alone could stop the initiative, urging the forum to work with other groups to strengthen its position.”2027 will show whether we can elect leaders that will respect the people,” Baba-Ahmed said.
