ACF crisis threatens Northern unity – ACI

The Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative (ACI) has warned that the ongoing leadership crisis in the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) could undermine the unity, credibility and collective interests of Northern Nigeria if not urgently resolved. The Director General of the organisation, Dr Abdullahi Idris, in a statement on Wednesday, described the lingering […]

The Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative (ACI) has warned that the ongoing leadership crisis in the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) could undermine the unity, credibility and collective interests of Northern Nigeria if not urgently resolved.

The Director General of the organisation, Dr Abdullahi Idris, in a statement on Wednesday, described the lingering dispute within the ACF as unfortunate and embarrassing, noting that the development was exposing the North to unnecessary ridicule at a time the region needed unity and strategic leadership.

He said the public exchange of accusations, counter-statements, allegations of constitutional violations and leadership misconduct among members of the ACF had created confusion and weakened confidence in an organisation once regarded as a respected voice for the North.

He said the crisis poses a serious threat to northern unity and could further divide stakeholders at a period when the region is already battling insecurity, poverty, unemployment, poor educational development and economic hardship.

ACI stressed that rather than promoting unity and direction, the ongoing conflict within the forum was creating division and weakening the moral authority expected from northern elders and leaders.

The organisation warned that prolonged disagreements among prominent northern figures could damage the region’s image and reduce public trust in existing institutions.

It therefore called on all parties involved in the dispute to embrace dialogue, restraint and constitutional order in order to preserve the unity and integrity of the North.

ACI further reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, development and inclusive leadership across Northern Nigeria, saying the region needed visionary and credible leadership capable of addressing its growing challenges.

Dr Idris said the organisation was founded on principles of accountability, unity, peace, security and development, adding that the North deserved institutions that reflected the aspirations of its people rather than platforms weakened by internal conflicts.

He added that ACI would continue to engage stakeholders on issues affecting the region, particularly security, youth empowerment, education, economic growth and peaceful coexistence.

The organisation also urged northern elders, political leaders, professionals, traditional rulers and civil society groups to support efforts aimed at restoring responsible leadership and rebuilding the image of the region.