The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has declared that Northern Nigeria will only support presidential candidates in the 2027 elections who demonstrate genuine commitment to addressing the region’s pressing challenges. The influential socio-cultural organization issued the warning during its Board of Trustees meeting in Kaduna, attended by prominent Northern leaders including former governors, ministers, and security experts.
ACF Chairman Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu emphasized that the North’s voting decisions would be based on concrete benefits rather than blind loyalty to any politician or party. “We remain faithful to those who care about our regional interests and are willing to promote and protect them,” stated Dalhatu, a former Minister of Power and Steel. He highlighted the region’s demographic and political advantages, noting the North controls 19 states, 75% of Nigeria’s landmass, and holds majority positions in key government institutions.
The forum expressed concern about worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and perceived marginalization under the current administration. Dalhatu revealed plans to establish a committee to evaluate federal government policies and their impact on Northern development. The ACF also cautioned against premature politicking, arguing that early campaign activities distract from governance and violate the spirit of electoral laws.
The position aligns with recent comments by Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former political adviser to the vice president, who asserted that the North would no longer vote without demanding tangible benefits. However, US-based academic Prof. Farooq Kperogi challenged the notion that Northern support is indispensable for presidential victory, citing historical examples of candidates winning without dominant Northern backing.
Political analysts have urged Northern leaders to focus on specific demands including improved security, job creation, and infrastructure development. Security expert Abdullahi Garba identified porous borders as a critical challenge, recommending enhanced community collaboration to curb cross-border criminal activities.
As political realignments begin ahead of 2027, the ACF’s stance signals a strategic shift in Northern politics, with the region seeking to leverage its numerical strength to secure better developmental outcomes. The forum vowed to continue engaging with traditional, religious, and political leaders to address the North’s multifaceted challenges.
