Former spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has publicly criticized the recent US bombing of terrorist targets in Sokoto State, sparking fresh debate over Nigeria’s security strategy and foreign military involvement.
His remarks come amid mixed reactions across the country following US-backed airstrikes on ISIS-linked camps in northern Nigeria.
Reacting to the airstrikes, Baba-Ahmed described the US military action as troubling and potentially damaging to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
According to him:
Foreign bombing on Nigerian soil raises serious questions about national independence
Such actions could undermine the morale and credibility of the Nigerian military
Nigeria should not appear incapable of handling its own security challenges
He warned that relying on foreign powers to conduct direct military operations could send the wrong message internationally and domestically.
The controversy follows confirmation that US-backed airstrikes hit two ISIS-linked terrorist camps in north-western Nigeria, including parts of Sokoto State.
Government officials stated that the operation:
Targeted extremist hideouts
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Was based on intelligence cooperation
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Aimed to weaken ISIS-affiliated groups expanding in the region
While many Nigerians welcomed the strikes as a major blow to terrorism, others, like Baba-Ahmed, expressed deep reservations.
A Divided Public Reaction
The airstrikes have triggered sharp divisions:
✔️ Supporters argue that:
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Terrorism requires international cooperation
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Nigeria needs advanced intelligence and military technology
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The priority is protecting civilian lives
❌ Critics argue that:
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Foreign military action erodes sovereignty
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It exposes weaknesses in Nigeria’s defense system
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It could create long-term dependency on external forces
Baba-Ahmed’s comments reflect the latter concern.
Not a Government Position
It is important to note that Baba-Ahmed’s remarks represent his personal and political views, not an official government stance.
The Nigerian government has not indicated any disagreement with the operation and has continued to emphasize strategic partnerships in the fight against terrorism.
Why This Matters
The debate highlights:
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Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with insecurity
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Public anxiety over foreign military involvement
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Broader questions about sovereignty, dignity, and national defense
Security analysts say the challenge lies in balancing international cooperation with national control.
Final Thoughts
While the US-backed airstrikes are being hailed as a tactical success against ISIS-linked militants, voices like Hakeem Baba-Ahmed’s remind Nigerians of the deeper political and sovereignty implications.
As Nigeria navigates this complex security landscape, the conversation around how to fight terrorism without compromising national independence is likely to continue.
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Former NEF spokesperson Hakeem Baba-Ahmed faults US bombing of terrorists in Sokoto, warning of threats to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
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