The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has dismissed the proposal by Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential hopeful Peter Obi to serve only one term if elected president in 2027.
The influential Northern socio-political organization argued that such a commitment is neither constitutionally required nor beneficial to democratic governance.
The development comes as political conversations surrounding the 2027 presidential race continue to gain momentum across the country.
Why ACF Opposes the Proposal
Peter Obi recently stated that he would spend only four years in office if elected and subsequently hand power back to Northern Nigeria.
However, ACF National Secretary, Tukur Baba, questioned the rationale behind such a pledge, describing it as unnecessary and potentially harmful to democratic principles.
According to him, leadership positions should remain open to voters’ judgment based on performance rather than predetermined regional arrangements.
He argued that if an elected leader performs exceptionally well in office, Nigerians should not be restricted from deciding whether that individual deserves another mandate.
Baba further warned that excessive emphasis on power rotation could deepen ethnic and regional divisions instead of strengthening national unity.
“Good Governance Matters More”
The ACF official maintained that what Nigerians need most is effective leadership, accountability, improved security, quality education, healthcare delivery and economic stability.
He stressed that governance outcomes should take precedence over political calculations centered on regional power-sharing.
According to him, citizens should focus on electing leaders capable of delivering results rather than candidates making promises tied to geographic considerations.
Forum Denies Backing Any Presidential Candidate
Despite its criticism of Obi’s position, the Forum emphasized that it has not endorsed any candidate ahead of the 2027 election.
The organization said its role is to analyze issues affecting Northern Nigeria and the country at large while allowing voters to make independent choices at the ballot box.
ACF noted that Northern Nigeria consists of hundreds of ethnic groups with diverse political preferences, making it difficult to project a single candidate as the region’s preferred choice.
ACF Delivers Harsh Verdict on Tinubu Administration
Beyond its position on Obi’s pledge, the Forum also expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Baba criticized the government over worsening insecurity, rising cost of living and what he described as insufficient progress in addressing major national challenges.
According to him, incidents of banditry, kidnappings and terrorist activities continue to affect many communities despite changes within the country’s security architecture.
Concerns Over Economy and Infrastructure
The ACF spokesman also raised concerns about increasing living costs and the economic burden facing ordinary Nigerians.
He questioned whether major infrastructure projects and economic reforms have produced visible benefits for citizens while expressing worries about rising public debt levels.
The comments add to the growing national debate over governance, security and economic management as political stakeholders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
2027 Debate Intensifies
With political conversations already shaping the next election cycle, Obi’s one-term pledge and the ACF’s response are likely to remain part of broader discussions on power rotation, national unity and democratic governance.
As Nigerians evaluate potential contenders for the presidency, issues such as security, economic recovery and leadership effectiveness are expected to dominate the political landscape in the months ahead.
