ACF Leadership Crisis: Board and Executive Disputes Emerge

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) is currently facing a leadership crisis, primarily centered on the roles of its board of trustees and the executive committee. Key figures such as Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, the chairman of the board, and General Haliru Akilu, a member of the board, are involved in disputes over the tenure of officials, which is set to expire on March 10, 2026.

The forum, established in 2000 to protect the interests of northern Nigeria, has reported a significant donation of N3.9 billion to a new account at Jaiz Bank, raising concerns among members about financial management. The leadership structure includes a six-year term for board leaders and a three-year term for executive committee members, with discussions ongoing about filling vacancies.

Mallam Murtala Aliyu, the current secretary general, is expected to leave his position, prompting the appointment of Mallam Bukar Zarma as the acting secretary general until a permanent replacement is appointed.