From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called on northern leaders and citizens to stay vigilant and united in light of the increasing insecurity, political treachery, and environmental disasters threatening the stability of the region.
During the 78th National Executive Committee meeting held on Thursday in Kaduna, Chief Mamman Osuman (SAN), the Forum’s Chairman, warned against complacency and the spread of misinformation within the North’s socio-political leadership.
“This is not the time to sit on the fence or, like the ostrich, bury our heads in the sand under the delusion that we see nothing. We must remain united and resolute against imperfections, avarice, deceit, misinformation, and other inconsistencies,” Osuman urged.
He pointed out that the North continues to face significant insecurity, from terrorism to banditry, as well as natural disasters such as flooding, raising concerns about the toll these events take on human lives.
“We have lost children, men and women of all ages, and the elderly to natural disasters, flooding, drowning, and violent criminals. Our suffering as a region is a major concern for ACF, and I urge introspection and prayers,” he lamented.
The chairman also acknowledged the recent passing of several prominent northern leaders and ACF stalwarts, including former Chairman Chief Audu Ogbeh; Deputy Secretary-General Alhaji Umar Moriki; former Minister Professor Jubril Aminu; elder statesman Alhaji Aminu Dantata; former Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Muhammad Uwais; and immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Just last week, we lost our former Chairman, Chief Audu Ogbeh, along with Professor Jubril Aminu, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Justice Uwais, and Muhammadu Buhari. These are painful losses,” Osuman expressed.
Osuman reiterated the Forum’s non-partisan stance, emphasizing that while members can hold individual political beliefs, the ACF will not align with any particular political party.
“At this juncture, I must remind all members that the ACF is non-partisan. While we each have our individual beliefs, ideologies, and perspectives, the ACF remains resolutely independent of any political party, but is nonetheless passionately committed to the mission of preserving the North and its people—without prejudice to the unity and sovereignty of Nigeria,” he clarified.
The Forum will continue to collaborate with organizations sharing similar objectives, announcing that the “Forum for National Restoration” will address members during the NEC meeting.
Regarding plans, Osuman revealed that preparations are in advanced stages for the ACF’s 25th anniversary celebration, tentatively scheduled for October 15–30, 2025.
“All hands are on deck for this Jubilee celebration. Committees are already working, and I have had the privilege of attending some of their meetings. The commitment, discipline, and scope of their preparations are commendable,” he stated.
He assured members that more details about the anniversary program would be provided by the Secretary-General during the deliberations.
The ACF Chairman also cautioned against the dissemination of unverified or extreme views on its Rapid Response Platform, encouraging reliance on state chapters and headquarters for accurate guidance.
“Those of you on the ACF’s Rapid Response Platform may have encountered various contributions and analyses. Some are cautionary and informative, while others are radical and potentially misleading,” he warned.
Osuman disclosed that the 78th NEC meeting would cover 12 agenda items, including updates on the Forum’s registered company, ARECON, and the ongoing “ETTE issue.”
The popular “State of the Nation” segment, always the 10th item on the agenda, will be addressed by the Forum’s Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Baba, concluding with the issuance of a communiqué at the end of the meeting.
In concluding his welcome address, Osuman called for resilience, law-abiding conduct, and unity, describing the current period as a defining moment for the region.
“This is the time for us to embrace brotherhood, truth, and righteousness. We must always remain law-abiding. When in doubt, please contact the leadership of your State Chapters or rely on the headquarters at No. 11A Sokoto Road,” he advised.
He also led members in a solemn prayer for the repose of departed leaders and citizens, saying: “May Allah forgive their transgressions. And may their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
