The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has firmly rejected reports suggesting a change in its leadership, describing the claims as false, unconstitutional, and without any effect.
In a statement issued in Kaduna, the forum’s Chairman, Mike Mamman Osuman, clarified that no such decision had been taken by any of the organisation’s recognised organs. He stressed that the purported announcement did not originate from within the legitimate structures of the forum and should therefore be disregarded entirely.
According to Osuman, the ACF operates under clearly defined constitutional guidelines, particularly regarding leadership selection and transitions. He noted that any deviation from these procedures undermines the integrity of the organisation and cannot be recognised as valid.
“The attention of the forum has been drawn to reports circulating in some quarters about a change in leadership. We wish to categorically state that such claims are false and of no effect,” the statement read.
The forum further emphasised that its leadership neither approved nor had prior knowledge of any move to alter its current structure. It described the alleged action behind the claims as a breach of its constitution, adding that it failed to follow laid-down procedures required for any legitimate leadership transition.
The ACF called on its members, media organisations, and the general public to disregard the reports, warning that misinformation of this nature could create unnecessary confusion and tension within its ranks. It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, order, and adherence to its internal governance framework.
Political observers note that the ACF, as one of the most influential socio-political bodies in northern Nigeria, plays a significant role in shaping discourse on regional and national issues. As such, any speculation about leadership changes within the forum often attracts widespread attention and scrutiny.
The statement also serves as a reminder of the importance of due process in organisational governance, particularly in bodies with far-reaching influence. By dismissing the claims outright, the ACF leadership appears intent on maintaining stability and preventing internal divisions.
While the source of the rumoured leadership change remains unclear, the forum’s swift response underscores its determination to uphold its constitutional processes and preserve unity among its members.
For now, the ACF maintains that its leadership remains intact, and any suggestion to the contrary should be treated as unfounded speculation.
