ACF Calls for Peaceful 2027 Elections Amid Rising Insecurity in Northern Nigeria

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called on citizens across northern Nigeria to cooperate with authorities and ensure peaceful and credible elections in 2027, warning that insecurity in the region remains a serious threat to the democratic process.

ACF Chairman Mamman Mike Osuman made the appeal during the forum’s 79th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Kaduna on Wednesday. He emphasized the need for citizens to understand their civic responsibilities and abide by national laws.

Election Season Amid Complex Groupings

Osuman noted that the election period has seen the emergence of complex political groupings, often more focused on positioning ahead of the polls than addressing pressing social challenges such as child education, hunger, poverty, banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

He stressed that the forum’s agenda prioritizes the welfare of the downtrodden, urging leaders and communities to reject selfish or primordial interests in favour of genuine and purposeful development.

Northern Nigeria Faces Deepening Security Crisis

Highlighting the severity of insecurity across northern states, Osuman cited terrorism, armed banditry, insurgency, and kidnappings in areas including Kwara, southern Kaduna, Katsina, and Benue. The attacks have led to mass displacement, overcrowded camps, restricted access to food, education, and healthcare, and the disruption of rural economies.

“Repeated attacks and the climate of fear have caused schools to close, limited access to farming, and made travel unsafe,” Osuman said. “External military assistance has been required to contain the threats.”

He urged political leaders, community influencers, and citizens to prioritise peace, collaboration, and public welfare as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.

Forum Structure and Policy Approach

Osuman outlined ACF’s operational structure, explaining that the National Working Committee addresses emerging issues, which are then supported and implemented through NEC committees. The NEC is also responsible for policy formulation and programme implementation, ensuring that ACF’s initiatives reach communities effectively.