Northern Region Regrets Supporting Tinubu, Threatens to Oppose Him in 2027 — Arewa Forum

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), a socio-cultural group representing northern Nigeria, has expressed regret over the region’s decision to support President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 elections. According to the AYCF President, Alhaji Shettima Yerima, the North feels let down by the current administration and is prepared to oppose Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 if the country’s challenges persist.

Yerima highlighted widespread dissatisfaction across the northern region, citing unfulfilled expectations from Tinubu’s leadership. He urged the government to address pressing issues such as economic hardship and insecurity to regain the trust of northern voters. Speaking with Vanguard, he also criticized some state governors for their reliance on federal allocations, accusing them of prioritizing self-interest over their states’ development.

Yerima advocated for a decentralised federal structure, arguing that such a system would compel states to generate their own revenue, thereby fostering productivity and self-reliance across the country.

Reflecting on the previous administration, Yerima noted that many northerners already felt neglected during Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure. “The north had high hopes that Tinubu, with his vast experience and democratic approach, would offer solutions to the nation’s problems. However, the disappointment is palpable as these expectations have not been met,” he said.

While acknowledging the difficult circumstances Tinubu inherited, Yerima stated that more should be done to ease citizens’ suffering. He urged the government to implement policies with adequate cushioning effects to minimize the public’s hardship. “People have suffered enough,” Yerima remarked, warning that poor implementation of policies could alienate the populace further.

However, Yerima also called for patience, stating that it is too early to conclude that Tinubu has failed. He suggested that the administration has an opportunity to turn things around before the next election. “If tangible progress is not made, the North may unite to seek better alternatives in 2027,” he warned.

The AYCF leader emphasized that the region is not rushing to judgment but expects visible improvements soon. “The government has less than two years to make meaningful changes,” he concluded.

Source: Sahara Reporters