The Traffic

"2027 Bombshell: ACF Dumps Tinubu, Endorses Northern Presidential Candidates"

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic political shift, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has announced its support for Northern presidential candidates in the upcoming 2027 general elections. The Forum made this declaration during its National Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday in Kaduna State, citing dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies.

The Breaking Point: ACF’s Discontent with Tinubu

The ACF’s decision to withdraw its support from Tinubu’s administration is rooted in growing concerns over the worsening socio-economic conditions in Northern Nigeria. In a communiqué released by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the Forum accused the federal government of adopting poor economic policies that have further deteriorated the region’s economy.

“Unless urgent steps are taken to reverse the current trajectory, the North risks plunging into severe economic hardship,” the communiqué warned.

The ACF also highlighted the insecurity plaguing the North, describing it as an existential threat that is undermining the government’s authority. “Security is an irreducible minimum of human existence. Insecurity in its various manifestations remains the most worrisome challenge for the Arewa people,” it stated.

A Call for Policy Overhaul

The Forum urged Tinubu’s administration to reevaluate and recalibrate its economic policies in the interest of all Nigerians. It emphasized that any candidate it supports in 2027 must demonstrate a commitment to addressing the North’s socio-economic and security challenges.

The Northern Agenda: A Rescue Mission for 2027

Declaring its intent to back Northern candidates for the presidency and other key positions, the ACF described the move as a necessary step to "rescue the region and the country from prevailing challenges."

This strategic alignment signals a growing divide between the North and Tinubu’s government, raising questions about the political dynamics leading up to 2027.

Asari Dokubo Joins Northern Alliance

In a related development, former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo has also distanced himself from Tinubu, announcing plans to form a political alliance with Northern leaders. Dokubo, who was a staunch supporter of Tinubu during the 2023 presidential campaign, accused the president of betrayal.

The ex-militant leader expressed regret over his loyalty to Tinubu, lamenting their decades-long friendship. “The Yoruba allies have betrayed us,” Dokubo said, signaling his shift towards Northern political figures.

What This Means for 2027

The ACF’s endorsement of Northern candidates and the growing disenchantment among Tinubu’s former allies like Dokubo hint at a turbulent road to the 2027 elections. With the North now mobilizing to consolidate power, the political landscape is set for intense competition and realignment.

As the nation edges closer to 2027, all eyes will be on the unfolding alliances and strategies that will shape Nigeria’s political future.