The apex northern sociocultural body, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), has told politicians to prioritise governance, stressing that it’s not time yet for 2027 campaigns.
The body described early election campaigns as insensitive amid worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and growing discontent among Nigerians.
ACF chairman, Chief Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), stated this at the 715th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the forum at its national secretariat in Kaduna on Thursday.
The ACF chairman described the recent resurgence of violent attacks in parts of the North and other parts of the country as disturbing and unacceptable.
According to him, “Only recently, we were rudely astounded by the sad news of the resurgence of terror attacks and loss of lives and property in Bokkos, Plateau State; the gruesome assassination of Northerners in Uromi, Edo State; and renewed Boko Haram assaults in Borno State. These are issues of grave concern to us in ACF.”
He expressed concern that while federal authorities continue to assure of normalcy in the North-East, the return of insurgent elements to communities has shattered public confidence.
“These insecurities have interfered with the peaceful co-existence of our people. Farms are abandoned, schools closed, and petty trade halted crippling livelihoods,” Osuman lamented.
The ACF also expressed sympathy for victims of the recent devastating flood in Maiduguri and environs, urging federal and state authorities to scale up emergency response and rebuild critical infrastructure.
On the political climate, Osuman decried the growing tempo of political campaigns and media rhetoric ahead of the 2027 elections, describing it as a distraction from the urgent task of governance.
“While the desire to serve is commendable, the safety, welfare, and prosperity of Nigerians should take precedence. The momentum around 2027 should take a back seat for now,” he said, stressing the need for responsible leadership that addresses terrorism, mass killings, hunger, and disease.
The senior lawyer and statesman called on members of the forum and leaders across board to be courageous and selfless in speaking truth to power, likening their role to that of global moral icons such as Martin Luther King Jr., Indira Gandhi, and Nelson Mandela.
On developments within the forum, the chairman commended the revitalisation efforts in various state chapters, particularly applauding the Gombe State chapter for its coordination and engagement during recent visits.
He also announced the creation of six additional standing committees on agriculture, livestock, education, politics, code of conduct and ethics, and the 25th Anniversary Planning Committee bringing the number of ACF standing committees to fifteen.
“Our influence as a socio-cultural force must not be seen as symbolic. We must match our ideals with action and tangible impact,” he said, tasking committee members to deliver on their mandates and ensure the Forum leaves lasting footprints on governance, policy, and peacebuilding in the region.
The forum also revisited the protracted Ette boundary crisis involving Kogi and Enugu States. Osuman revealed that the ACF had received fresh appeals from the Ette Boundary Committee requesting intervention to compel the National Boundary Commission to finalise demarcation by erecting concrete boundary pillars.
“The Ette community is a peaceful and integral part of Northern Nigeria. We will not allow their rights and land to be violated,” he said, inviting Prof. Abah George Fidelis to shed light on the status of dialogues and pending actions.
On the upcoming 25th Anniversary of the forum, Osuman promised that the event would be a monumental milestone, calling on members to support the various planning committees that would be communicated in the coming week.
He ended the address with a goodwill message to Christian members of the Forum as they mark the Easter celebration, emphasising unity, sacrifice, and collective commitment to national progress.
“As a Forum, we shall remain the voice of our people. Let us continue the struggle for a better Nigeria,” Osuman stated.
