The Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative (ACI) has condemned the ongoing leadership crisis within the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), describing it as an embarrassing spectacle that damages the unity, dignity, and reputation of Northern Nigeria.
In a statement released on behalf of the organisation, ACI Director General Dr. Abdullahi Idris, said the recent spate of conflicting communiqués, public accusations, allegations of constitutional breaches, financial misconduct, abuse of office, police involvement, and factional disputes has reduced the ACF—once a respected voice for the North—to a source of public ridicule.
‘The disturbing events surrounding the ACF leadership crisis, including damaging allegations, public confrontations, contradictory claims, institutional confusion, and media battles, have become a major source of embarrassment to Northern Nigeria and its people’, Dr. Idris stated.
He noted that the North is currently grappling with serious challenges including insecurity, poverty, unemployment, poor education outcomes, economic hardship, and weakening social cohesion. Against this backdrop, he said, it is unacceptable for prominent northern leaders to engage in open conflicts and leadership scandals that further erode the region’s image and credibility.
‘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’, the statement read.
ACI said recent statements and publications emerging from the ACF crisis reveal deep division, leadership failure, and institutional breakdown at a time when northerners expect mature engagement and responsible leadership from elders and stakeholders. The group warned that no region can progress where personal interests, ego battles, and power struggles override collective responsibility and the common good.
The organisation called on all parties involved to place the interest of the North above personal ambition and to immediately embrace dialogue, restraint, and constitutional order to prevent further damage to the region’s standing.
ACI reaffirmed its position as a credible and responsible alternative platform committed to protecting and advancing the true interests of Northern Nigeria. According to Dr. Idris, the initiative is composed of board members and stakeholders who are energetic, visionary, disciplined, and driven by integrity, patriotism, and a genuine 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 said.
He added that ACI remains committed to constructive engagement on issues affecting Northern Nigeria, particularly security, youth empowerment, education, economic development, peaceful coexistence, and the strengthening of regional unity.
‘The North needs forward-looking leadership with integrity, credibility, and the energy to confront the challenges facing our people. This is not the time for endless internal battles and public disgrace. Our people deserve purposeful leadership capable of restoring confidence, protecting northern interests, and promoting national unity’, Dr. Idris stated.
ACI urged northern elders, political leaders, professionals, traditional institutions, and civil society groups to support efforts aimed at rebuilding the region’s image and restoring responsible leadership that can earn respect across Nigeria.
