The President-General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Yerima Shettima, has stated that the northern region has not yet reached a decision on whether to support President Bola Tinubu’s bid for re-election in 2027. In an interview with The Punch, Shettima explained that discussions are still ongoing as the region assesses Tinubu’s performance in office.
Shettima’s comments follow a recent statement by Mamman Osuman, the suspended National Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum. Osuman had asserted last week that the north would back a candidate from the region in 2027 to address challenges and alleviate hardship affecting both the region and the nation.
Addressing criticisms of Tinubu’s policies from some northern groups, Shettima emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to express their dissatisfaction.
According to Shettima, current deliberations within the region center on Tinubu’s ability to tackle pressing issues such as security, economic stability, and social welfare.
“The north has not taken any position against Tinubu yet,” Shettima said. “However, those dissatisfied with his government have every right to voice their grievances. At this point, there is no collective decision from the north regarding Tinubu. Some people within the region believe Tinubu should reconsider certain policies and adopt more people-friendly measures to improve the well-being of Nigerians, and that is what we are encouraging him to do.”
He dismissed claims of a northern coalition against Tinubu, saying, “Anyone who tells you that the north has ganged up against Tinubu is lying. We have not reached that decision, nor do I think we are heading in that direction. Some of us still believe this administration can make meaningful changes.”
When asked whether the north would support a candidate from the region to challenge Tinubu, Shettima responded, “Why wouldn’t I want someone from the north to succeed Tinubu after eight years, provided he performs well? But if his performance falls short, we will collectively mobilize against him in the next election. For now, there is no justification to organize opposition or consider such measures.”
