As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has reaffirmed its commitment to political neutrality, urging its members to refrain from using the platform to advance partisan interests.
In a statement released on Monday in Kaduna, the National Publicity Secretary of the Forum, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, said the ACF remains a socio-cultural organization focused on promoting unity, peace, and development in Northern Nigeria, and not a political party or pressure group.
He emphasized that while individual members are free to associate with political parties of their choice, they must not do so in the name of the Forum. According to him, the ACF’s mission is to safeguard the collective interests of the North through dialogue, advocacy, and engagement with all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliations.
Prof. Muhammad-Baba noted that in recent times, some individuals had attempted to drag the Forum into partisan politics by issuing statements or endorsements purportedly on behalf of ACF. He warned that such actions contravene the principles of the organization and would not be tolerated.
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“The ACF will continue to engage with political actors, institutions, and civil society to ensure that the 2027 elections are peaceful and credible. However, we must make it clear that the Forum will not support or endorse any political candidate or party,” he stated.
He also called on Northern leaders to prioritize unity, good governance, and the welfare of citizens, rather than ethnic or political rivalries.
The Arewa Consultative Forum, founded in 2000, serves as a voice for the North on national issues, promoting regional development, inclusiveness, and peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.
