ACF Urges Members to Maintain Political Neutrality Ahead of 2027 Elections
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called on its members to remain politically neutral as the 2027 general elections approach. ACF Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Muhammad Dalhatu, emphasized the need for unity and a collective voice on issues affecting Northern Nigeria.
Speaking at the opening of a meeting held at the ACF headquarters in Kaduna, Dalhatu noted that the forum must focus on its mandate of promoting regional development and cohesion rather than partisan politics. The meeting had in attendance all state chapter chairmen and secretaries.
The discussions centered on key issues, including preparations for the upcoming ACF Silver Jubilee and the establishment of clear communication protocols for officials, particularly in their interactions with the media and external bodies.
Scheduled for November 20–22, 2025, the ACF Silver Jubilee will serve as a fundraising event for the construction of the forum’s national headquarters and the launch of an Endowment Fund to support social and economic development initiatives across Northern Nigeria. The celebration will also feature the unveiling and presentation of several publications.
The forum strongly condemned the alleged sabotage of the Dangote Refinery, describing it as a vital national asset that has helped ease fuel shortages and stabilize foreign exchange.
It urged the Federal Government to take immediate measures to safeguard the refinery and protect other strategic national assets from similar threats.
Expressing deep concern over the rising insecurity across Northern Nigeria, the ACF also decried the proliferation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating with overlapping objectives.
It directed its state chapters to intensify membership drives and establish local government branches to strengthen grassroots engagement.
The ACF further appealed to Northerners who have formed parallel or splinter groups to reconsider their stance and rejoin the forum, stressing that the organization has ample room for all who share its vision for regional progress.
The forum concluded by commending the armed forces and other security agencies for their relentless sacrifices in combating insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges facing the nation.
