We Are Concerned About Insecurity In Our Region, Not 2027 Election – ACF 

We Are Concerned About Insecurity In Our Region, Not 2027 Election – ACF 

The Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) held on August 4th saw an unprecedented turnout. The high caliber of attendees, including former political leaders, has been unmatched in recent times.

The meeting, chaired by Alhaji Bashir Mohammed Dalhatu, Wazirin Dutse, featured a notable gathering of former state governors, ministers, service chiefs, National Assembly members, retired senior public officers, academics, professionals, and numerous dedicated citizens.

While there were speculations that the meeting might address 2027 politics, it focused instead on tackling pressing regional issues. ACF Board member and former Secretary General, Mr. Anthony Sani, clarified that the meeting did not delve into the 2027 elections or President Bola Tinubu’s potential re-election. He emphasized that the key to Tinubu’s re-election would be addressing insecurity and ensuring good governance.

The meeting aimed to address insecurity, including insurgencies, banditry, kidnappings, and farmer-herder clashes, as well as socio-economic issues like poverty, unemployment, and drug abuse.

ACF typically convenes such meetings only when necessary, signaling their commitment to addressing regional concerns, as noted by Sen. Tanko Almakura.

Despite the ACF Board chairman’s denial of political discussions, some observers believed the large attendance hinted at political undercurrents regarding the 2027 elections.

Sani maintained that the meeting was purely focused on regional challenges and not political maneuvering.

Regarding insecurity, Sani acknowledged it as a significant issue but expressed confidence that, with political will and determination, it could be addressed by the Northerners themselves.

He argued that if the current government delivers on its promises, including managing insecurity, it would garner broader support, including from the South.

On the potential for political divisions within ACF due to loyalties, Sani pointed out that ACF includes members from various political backgrounds and is not bound to a single party. The forum remains focused on common regional issues rather than partisan politics.

The ACF also expressed concern about numerous northern groups claiming to represent regional interests. Sani indicated that while ACF would not disband these groups, it prefers their energies be channeled into strengthening ACF rather than competing platforms.

Addressing concerns about constitutional review and restructuring, Sani noted that ACF has never opposed such measures but believes that Nigeria’s issues are more about national ideals and moral values than constitutional flaws. The forum is open to participating in any necessary constitutional changes while ensuring that northern interests are safeguarded.

Sani acknowledged criticisms that ACF has appeared inactive but assured that current leaders are committed to addressing any challenges the forum faces.

Regarding the North’s needs, some groups have argued for infrastructural and educational development over political power in 2027. Sani accepted this view as part of the democratic process but reiterated that solutions to national issues can vary.

On the recent hike in fuel prices and inflation, Sani noted that controlling inflation is challenging due to both domestic and imported factors. He expressed hope that domestic refineries, like Dangote’s, could eventually reduce reliance on imported fuel.

Lastly, Sani critiqued the recent policy changes, such as lifting the ban on food imports and suspending tariffs on essential commodities, arguing that such moves might undermine local agricultural investments and reflect inconsistent public policies. He urged the government to maintain policy stability to achieve economic productivity.