The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has strongly criticized suggestions that no member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) should contest against President Bola Tinubu for the party’s presidential ticket in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The northern socio-political organization said such views are undemocratic and go against the spirit of Nigeria’s Constitution, which guarantees equal political rights to all citizens.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, which was monitored by journalists in Kaduna, ACF spokesperson Prof. Tukur Muhammad Baba emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution clearly spells out the eligibility criteria for contesting public office, including the presidency — and that these rights cannot be arbitrarily denied based on party loyalty or regional considerations.
“As long as Nigeria practices democracy and the Constitution is in force, it is that same Constitution that outlines who can and cannot contest any public office,” Prof. Baba stated. “No region or party faction should assume ownership of any position. Every eligible Nigerian has the right to contest.”
He further noted that although the ACF is not a political party, it remains committed to engaging in national discourse and advocating for principles that support justice, equity, and democracy. The group urged the APC to ensure internal democracy by allowing open competition for its 2027 presidential ticket.
In response, APC’s Director of Publicity, Malam Bala Ibrahim, acknowledged that while every qualified Nigerian can run for office under the Constitution, political parties have the autonomy to support and promote candidates who align with their goals and ideals.
“Every citizen who meets the legal requirements can declare their intention to run. But ultimately, the party will back the candidate it believes is most suited to fly its flag,” he explained.
It will be recalled that in May, several influential APC leaders from the North-West, including governors, federal lawmakers, and party executives, publicly endorsed President Tinubu for a second term. Although Tinubu himself has not yet confirmed his intention to seek re-election, political analysts have warned that the early politicking may further distract from governance — a recurring issue in Nigeria’s political culture that continues to raise concern about long-term development.