ACF denies leadership change claims
Arewa Consultative Forum Denies Leadership Change Reports
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has officially refuted rumors of a change in its leadership, calling the reports false and unconstitutional.
In a statement released to the press, ACF National Publicity Secretary Prof. Muhammad-Baba clarified that the organization has not authorized any leadership changes. “The purported action from which the announcement derived is unconstitutional,” the statement said.
Prof. Muhammad-Baba emphasized that the ACF Chairman, Mr. Mike Mamman Mike Osuman, has sanctioned this disclaimer to reassure members, the media, and the public, particularly in light of ongoing socioeconomic challenges facing the region. He noted that the forum’s leadership has neither sanctioned nor communicated any supposed changes, advising that the announcement should be considered null and void.
“The General Assembly of the ACF holds the authority to approve changes in leadership, and this assembly has not yet convened to address any vacancies,” he added.
The statement further outlined that Section 8(6) of the ACF Constitution empowers the Board of Trustees (BOT) to provide general advice related to the forum’s objectives, and the BOT does not have the authority to implement leadership changes. It emphasized that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) holds the power to establish operational committees.
Additionally, the statement addressed the legitimacy of a purported Leadership Selection Committee, stating that it is not recognized within the Constitution. The previous committee, which concluded its duties earlier this year, has been dissolved and is still in the process of reconstitution.
“Any actions or announcements made by individuals claiming to exercise powers relating to this function are irregular and unconstitutional,” the statement asserted.
Prof. Muhammad-Baba reiterated that Mallam Murtala Aliyu remains the secretary general until a successor is properly appointed. The ACF expressed concern that the need for clarification might imply a leadership crisis, insisting that no such crisis exists and alleging that there are efforts to destabilize the organization.
The chairman reassured members and supporters of the current leadership’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the forum and resisting any attempts to undermine its objectives. The statement urged members to “remain calm and law-abiding” and to await further communications from the leadership.
