Your Leadership Crisis An Embarrassment To The North, Group Tells ACF

A group, Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative (ACI) has expressed disappointment and concern over the ongoing leadership crisis in the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF).

It described the unfolding drama as unfortunate, embarrassing and a complete mockery of the unity, dignity and collective values of Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued yesterday by the director-general of ACI, Dr Abdullahi Idris, the organisation said the recent communiqués, counter-statements, public accusations, allegations of constitutional violations, financial misconduct, abuse of office, police involvement and factional battles within the ACF had reduced what was once regarded as a respected northern platform into a public spectacle and source of ridicule before other regions of the country.

Idris noted that the North is currently facing enormous challenges, including insecurity, poverty, unemployment, poor education, economic hardship, and weakening social cohesion, making it unacceptable for prominent northern leaders to engage in open conflicts and leadership scandals that could further damage the region’s image and credibility.

“The disturbing events surrounding the leadership crisis in the ACF, including the exchange of damaging allegations, public confrontations, contradictory claims, institutional confusion, and media battles, have become a major source of embarrassment to Northern Nigeria and its people,” he said.

“Rather than projecting unity, wisdom, and direction, the North is unfortunately being exposed to unnecessary ridicule and political mockery before other regions due to the ongoing show of shame within an organisation expected to provide moral and strategic leadership,” ACI lamented.

It recalled several recent statements and publications emerging from the ACF crisis, saying they have continued to portray deep division, leadership failure, and institutional breakdown at a time when northerners expect mature engagement and responsible leadership from elders and stakeholders.

The organisation stressed that no region can progress if personal interests, ego battles, and power struggles override collective responsibility and the common good.

ACI, however, called on all parties involved in the crisis to place the interest of the North above personal ambitions and immediately embrace dialogue, restraint, and constitutional order in order to prevent further damage to the image of the region.

The statement further reaffirmed that ACI stands as a credible and responsible alternative platform committed to protecting and advancing the true interests of Northern Nigeria.

According to Idris, ACI is composed of board members and stakeholders who are energetic, visionary, disciplined, and driven by integrity, patriotism, and agenuine commitment to service.

“Our organisation is founded on the principles of accountability, unity, development, peace, security, and inclusive leadership. We believe the North deserves a platform that truly reflects the aspirations of its people rather than one constantly consumed by internal conflicts and leadership controversies,” he stated.