We’ll Back a Northern Candidate for President in 2027 — ACF

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a leading socio-cultural group representing Northern Nigeria, has announced its intention to support a Northern candidate in the 2027 presidential election. The group also declared its backing for Northerners vying for other political offices in the upcoming elections.

This declaration was made by ACF’s National Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman, during the Forum’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Wednesday at the ACF secretariat in Kaduna.

Osuman emphasized the need for unity and sacrifice to address the region’s challenges. “There is now a clarion call for individual sacrifices and inputs for the survival of our region and the emancipation of our downtrodden people,” he stated.

He acknowledged the growing interest among Northerners in political leadership roles ahead of 2027, noting that a significant number are already preparing for the elections. Osuman underscored the importance of focusing on the region’s socio-economic difficulties while engaging in politics.

“The North is currently under siege. Our region faces relentless attacks from bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers. Beyond these, we contend with disproportionate considerations and inequitable treatment in national policies,” he said.

Osuman also highlighted internal issues within the region, such as poor governance and the involvement of some Northerners in criminal activities. He posed critical questions to the region’s leaders, urging them to address these challenges effectively.

“To what extent are our elected leaders demonstrating prudence and concern for our domestic and environmental problems?” he asked. “Are our Governors and legislators collaborating with traditional leaders to combat the region’s ills? What local strategies exist to curb illegal mining and other vices?”

Osuman further called for increased public awareness and orientation programs to educate Northern communities on self-preservation and regional development. He expressed dissatisfaction with some policies of the current administration, describing them as adverse to Northern interests.

The meeting also referenced the emergence of the League of Northern Democrats (LND), a new political body reportedly involving over 260 prominent Northerners, including former governors and senators. Osuman noted this as a sign of growing political engagement in the region.