By The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a prominent northern sociocultural organization, has called on politicians to focus on governance rather than engaging in premature campaigns for the 2027 general elections. The ACF described such actions as insensitive, particularly in light of the ongoing insecurity, economic hardship, and growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians.
ACF Chairman, Chief Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), made the remarks during the 715th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the Forum’s national secretariat in Kaduna. He expressed concern about the resurgence of violent attacks in the North, including the recent terror attacks in Plateau State, the assassination of Northerners in Edo State, and renewed Boko Haram activity in Borno State.
Osuman highlighted the distressing impact of these security issues, noting that communities in the North-East have lost confidence in the assurances from federal authorities. The return of insurgents has disrupted peaceful co-existence, causing abandoned farms, closed schools, and halted businesses, which have severely affected livelihoods.
The ACF also extended its sympathy to the victims of the recent devastating floods in Maiduguri, urging both federal and state authorities to scale up emergency responses and work on rebuilding critical infrastructure.
Osuman criticized the escalating political campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, viewing it as a distraction from the urgent need for effective governance. He stressed that the safety and welfare of Nigerians should be the top priority and called for responsible leadership to address pressing issues like terrorism, mass killings, hunger, and disease.
The Chairman also commended the revitalization efforts in various state chapters of the ACF, particularly praising the Gombe State chapter for its engagement. He announced the creation of six additional standing committees within the Forum, emphasizing the importance of tangible action and impact in governance, policy, and peacebuilding.
