ACF Warns Against Premature 2027 Campaigns, Urges Focus on Governance

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has issued a strong warning to political actors across the country, cautioning them against engaging in premature campaigns for the 2027 general elections at the expense of governance.

The forum described such political distractions as grossly insensitive, especially in the face of escalating insecurity, worsening economic conditions, and rising public discontent.

ACF Chairman, Chief Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), gave the warning during the 715th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the forum, held at its national secretariat in Kaduna.

Osuman decried the recent resurgence of violent attacks across parts of the North and other regions of the country, describing them as “disturbing and unacceptable.”

“Only recently, we were rudely astounded by the sad news of the resurgence of terror attacks and loss of lives and property in Bokkos, Plateau State; the gruesome assassination of Northerners in Uromi, Edo State; and renewed Boko Haram assaults in Borno State,” he said.

He expressed concern that despite repeated assurances of stability in the North-East by federal authorities, the re-emergence of insurgents in communities has eroded public confidence.

“These insecurities have interfered with the peaceful co-existence of our people. Farms are abandoned, schools closed, and petty trade halted, crippling livelihoods,” he lamented.

The forum also sympathised with victims of the recent devastating flood in Maiduguri and surrounding areas, urging federal and state governments to intensify emergency responses and reconstruct vital infrastructure.

On the political front, Osuman condemned the increasing tempo of political campaigns and rhetoric surrounding the 2027 general elections, warning that it diverts attention from the urgent task of governance.

“While the desire to serve is commendable, the safety, welfare, and prosperity of Nigerians should take precedence.

The momentum around 2027 should take a back seat for now,” he stressed.

The ACF chairman called on leaders across all levels to emulate moral icons like Martin Luther King Jr., Indira Gandhi, and Nelson Mandela by speaking truth to power and embracing selfless leadership.

Providing updates on internal affairs, Osuman lauded the revitalisation of various state chapters of the forum, especially praising the Gombe State chapter for its coordination and active engagement during recent visits.

He further announced the establishment of six additional standing committees focusing on agriculture, livestock, education, politics, code of conduct and ethics, and the 25th Anniversary Planning Committee — bringing the total number of ACF standing committees to fifteen.

“Our influence as a socio-cultural force must not be seen as symbolic. We must match our ideals with action and tangible impact,” Osuman declared, urging the committees to fulfil their mandates and ensure the forum leaves a lasting imprint on governance, policy, and peacebuilding across the region.