The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has boldly declared that Northern Nigeria’s vast population, land mass, and political unity will play a pivotal role in determining the winner of the 2027 presidential election.
This statement came from the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the ACF after a meeting held on Wednesday in Kaduna. The forum emphasized that the North holds a unique position in the country, making it a critical player in Nigeria’s political landscape. The ACF also assured that it would closely monitor political actions and policies that affect the region leading up to the election.
In his opening address, the BOT Chairman, Alhaji Bashir M. Dalhatu (Wazirin Dutse), pointed out that Northern elders are urging the forum to focus on policies and programs that directly impact the region, especially as the 2027 election approaches. He further warned that Northern Nigeria’s unity would be key in securing the region’s political strength and influence in the upcoming election.
Dalhatu highlighted the significant advantages of the North, including its 19 states, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a majority in the Senate, and a strong presence in the National Economic Council. He also noted that the North occupies approximately 75% of Nigeria’s land area and houses about 60% of the nation’s population. These factors, he said, make the North an undeniable force in Nigerian politics.
“We have everything it takes to prevail in any fair competition within the federation and beyond,” Dalhatu said. “United, we stand strong. Divided, we fall.”
While discussing the 2027 election, Dalhatu clarified that the forum does not support any specific political party or candidate at this stage. Instead, he stressed that the ACF would remain committed to supporting those who advocate for and prioritize the interests of the North. The forum’s focus will be on ensuring that the region’s political and economic needs are effectively addressed by the government.
On a broader note, the forum raised alarm over the escalating security challenges in the North, calling for urgent action from the federal government to prevent further deterioration. The ACF stressed that addressing these issues is crucial for the stability and growth of the region, especially in light of its significant role in Nigeria’s political future.
In addition to security concerns, Dalhatu condemned the situation of indigenous communities in the FCT, noting that they had been displaced without proper compensation. He called for a thorough review of the legal provisions regarding the FCT’s development, highlighting the failure of the federal government to fulfill its obligations to the indigenous people.
Dalhatu also discussed the issue of land ownership, expressing concern over the increasing acquisition of land by southerners in the North while Northerners face discrimination in the South. He pointed out the growing hostility towards Northerners in some southern states, which has led to a sense of disenchantment and frustration with the federal government.
The ACF also noted the need for a comprehensive reform of land ownership policies in Northern states to protect the interests of indigenous people and prevent further landlessness in the region. The forum stressed the importance of securing land rights for Northerners amidst the increasing encroachment by outsiders.
