Arewa forum urges accountability and peaceful participation ahead of 2027 polls

The Arewa Consultative Forum has urged Nigerians to demand accountability from political leaders, particularly over insecurity, poverty, economic hardship and other national challenges. Forum chairman Mamman Osuman made the call in a message marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. He expressed concern about the displacement of citizens, disruption of economic activity, school closures and the destruction of livelihoods.

Osuman said some of the conditions affecting Nigerians were being caused or worsened by people entrusted with leadership. He described public authority as a sacred trust that should be exercised for the common good rather than personal interests. Ahead of the 2027 general elections, he encouraged eligible citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards and participate in the electoral process.

He also urged voters not to make decisions solely on the instructions of political parties. Instead, he said citizens should consider candidates’ records, policies and the issues affecting the country. He described each vote as a personal and constitutional choice about who should receive public responsibility.

Osuman also warned about the possibility of election-related violence. He called on political actors and citizens, especially young people, to avoid provocation, inflammatory rhetoric and gatherings or locations suspected to be trouble-prone. He said political disagreements should not lead to hatred, violence or destruction of communities.

The ACF chairman said Nigeria’s future required shared responsibility by government and citizens and called for renewed commitment to peace, unity, justice, good governance and the dignity of every Nigerian.