The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has pledged its support for northern candidates vying for the presidency and other positions in the 2027 general elections, citing the need to rescue both the region and the nation from worsening socio-economic challenges.

During its National Executive Council meeting in Kaduna State, the forum expressed grave concern over the deteriorating economic conditions in the North, attributing them to the Federal Government’s policies under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. It warned that without urgent intervention, the region could face dire consequences. Consequently, the ACF declared its intention to back northern politicians committed to addressing these challenges.

In a communiqué signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF criticised what it described as a flawed leadership selection process under Tinubu’s government. The group argued that this approach has elevated individuals lacking competence and experience to critical positions, thereby undermining governance.

The ACF urged the Federal Government to review its economic policies, advocating for a more humane approach to governance.

“Security is a fundamental requirement for human existence. Unfortunately, insecurity in its various forms remains the most troubling issue for the Arewa people. This has eroded government authority to such an extent that citizens are beginning to question its purpose,” the communiqué stated.

The forum condemned the government’s failure to ensure safety, stating that claims by security agencies of doing their best were unacceptable. “The minimum duty of any government is to protect lives and property. Anything less constitutes failure,” it added.

The ACF also expressed dissatisfaction with the economic hardships inflicted on ordinary Nigerians by current policies, stressing that the North, already at a disadvantage, has been hit hardest. The region faces acute food insecurity, limited educational opportunities, and a lack of skills training for its youth.

Despite the grim situation, the forum called for bold measures to reverse these challenges. “Economic reforms, though necessary, should not impoverish the very people they are meant to uplift. Policies must be sensitive to the precarious conditions of the Arewa people,” the communiqué concluded.