The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has strongly criticized Peter Obi’s pledge to serve only a single term if elected president in 2027, labeling the promise as undemocratic and unconstitutional. The forum, which represents Northern interests, also delivered a damning assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing it as ‘shambolic’ after three years in power.
In an exclusive interview with DAILY POST, ACF National Secretary Tukur Baba argued that Obi’s proposal undermines Nigeria’s democratic principles. According to Baba, such a term limit is not enshrined in the constitution and could lead to dangerous precedents, including religious or ethnic rotations that divide the nation. He warned that a president performing well should not be forced out by a premature pledge.
Baba emphasized that the North prioritizes good governance, security, and economic stability over any particular candidate. The ACF, he noted, does not endorse or oppose any political party, but rather analyzes issues and lets voters decide. However, he expressed deep disappointment in Tinubu’s handling of security and the economy.
‘The level of killings and kidnappings has only worsened under Tinubu,’ Baba said. ‘He reshuffled security chiefs, yet bandits like Bello Tunji still operate freely. The government has isolated Aso Villa from the national grid while ordinary Nigerians pay for electricity they don’t receive. Prices soar, taxes multiply, and major infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar highway remain stalled. The middle class has been wiped out, and this administration has taken more loans than all previous governments combined.’
Baba concluded that while Tinubu’s policies have impacted citizens, the effects have been overwhelmingly negative. He called for accountable leadership that prioritizes welfare, security, and anti-corruption efforts.