The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), a prominent socio-cultural group in northern Nigeria, has voiced deep regret over supporting President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 elections. According to Alhaji Shettima Yerima, the AYCF President, the northern region is disappointed with Tinubu’s administration and is prepared to oppose his reelection bid in 2027 unless urgent improvements are made.
Yerima explained that the North had high hopes for Tinubu’s leadership, anticipating significant progress in addressing insecurity and economic challenges. Unfortunately, these expectations have been unmet, and the current situation has only fueled frustration among the people. He warned that if the government fails to resolve these pressing issues, Tinubu should not expect the North’s support in the next election.
In addition to expressing dissatisfaction with the federal government, Yerima criticized northern state governors for their lack of innovation in revenue generation. He accused many of relying excessively on federal allocations, using funds for personal enrichment instead of improving infrastructure or investing in their states’ development.
Yerima argued that decentralizing Nigeria’s federal structure would encourage states to become more productive and less dependent on the central government. This, he said, would drive economic growth and benefit the entire nation.
Reflecting on the outcome of the 2023 elections, Yerima pointed out that many northerners feel betrayed after voting for Tinubu. He noted that these regrets are amplified by the failures of the previous administration under Muhammadu Buhari, who belongs to the same political party as Tinubu.
The AYCF’s statement highlights growing discontent in northern Nigeria and serves as a warning to the Tinubu-led administration. To regain the trust of the northern electorate, the government must prioritize tackling insecurity, revitalizing the economy, and promoting good governance across all levels.
If these issues remain unaddressed, the North’s political support for Tinubu in 2027 may be in serious jeopardy.
