"2027: ACF Stands Independent – Voices of Individuals, Not Party Lines"

Table of Contents

1. ACF's Non-Partisan Stance
2. Meeting Details
3. Stricter Communication Guidelines
4. Mission of the ACF
5. Call for Unity
6. Comments on Insecurity
7. Refinery Dispute
8. Gratitude to ACF Members

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has reiterated its position as a non-partisan socio-cultural organization and will not endorse any political party in the lead-up to 2027.

The Chairman of the Forum’s Board of Trustees, Bashir Dalhatu, communicated this during a BOT meeting held at the ACF headquarters in Kaduna.

The meeting was attended by state chapter chairpersons, secretaries, and members of the Arewa 100% Focus Group, who also discussed preparations for the organization’s 25th anniversary scheduled for November.

Dalhatu stated that the Forum will implement stricter communication guidelines following recent conflicting public statements made by some senior members on national issues. He cautioned that such behavior could jeopardize the unity and credibility of the ACF.

He clarified that while individual members are free to join any political party they choose, the ACF will maintain its neutrality.

“We do not endorse any political party. Our role is to define the qualities expected from anyone aspiring to public office,” he explained.

Dalhatu highlighted that the Forum’s mission is to foster democracy, good governance, and national unity. He also expressed concern regarding the increasing number of new northern associations that replicate the ACF’s objectives.

“Our strength lies in our unity and our ability to speak with one voice. Those forming parallel groups should rethink their decisions and return to the ACF, which has room for all,” he urged.

He reminded members that when the ACF was founded in 2000, prominent northern leaders, including former presidents, governors, and traditional rulers, agreed to unite all regional groups under a single umbrella to advance common goals.

Regarding insecurity, Dalhatu commended the Nigerian armed forces and security agencies for their ongoing sacrifices in combating insurgency and banditry across the North. He also advocated for the continuous enhancement of security operations to yield better outcomes and minimize casualties.

In reference to the recent conflict between the Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Dalhatu characterized the situation as “a national tragedy.”

He accused certain “unpatriotic unions and hidden cabals” of undermining the refinery, which he believes should be a point of national pride.

He called on the federal government to take swift action, asserting that those responsible are “acting against Nigeria’s interests.”

Dalhatu expressed gratitude to all ACF members for their dedication and urged them to continue advocating for peace, unity, and progress throughout the region and the nation.