The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has voiced widespread dissatisfaction in the Northern region over the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The influential socio-political group expressed regret for backing Tinubu in the 2023 general election and hinted at the possibility of withdrawing their support in the 2027 elections if their grievances are not addressed.
In a statement, the Forum cited a perceived neglect of Northern interests and lack of attention to pressing socio-economic challenges facing the region. They lamented the escalating issues of insecurity, poverty, and unemployment, arguing that the Tinubu administration has failed to meet the expectations of the Northern electorate who played a significant role in his electoral victory. The ACF emphasized that their support in 2023 was based on promises of inclusive governance and equitable distribution of resources, which they believe have yet to materialize.
“The people of the North feel betrayed,” the statement read. “We supported President Tinubu with the hope that he would address the deep-seated challenges in our region. Unfortunately, the current situation suggests otherwise, and frustration is growing.”
The discontent in the North, a region with significant electoral influence, could pose a serious challenge to Tinubu’s potential re-election bid in 2027. Political analysts have noted that losing the support of Northern stakeholders could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape and create opportunities for opposition parties.
The Arewa Forum concluded by urging President Tinubu to engage more actively with Northern leaders and prioritize the region’s development needs. They warned that failure to do so might lead to a decisive political shift come 2027, as the North weighs its options for future leadership.
This development underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining national unity and balancing regional interests within Nigeria’s complex political environment.
