ACF warns Tinubu, INEC: Don't jeopardize 2027 elections
On April 3, 2026, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) urged President Bola Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider recent actions, warning they could threaten the 2027 general elections. ACF National Publicity Secretary T.A. Muhammad-Baba, speaking to Leadership newspaper, cited INEC's removal of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership, led by David Mark, and the proposed voter revalidation exercise as measures capable of undermining democratic stability and eroding public confidence in the electoral system.
Muhammad-Baba stressed that these actions risk creating uncertainty ahead of the elections, aggravating Nigeria's already severe insecurity and economic hardships. He noted that every step by INEC or political authorities appears to jeopardize the 2027 election, potentially plunging the country into a fresh political crisis if democratic principles are not upheld.
The ACF called on the federal government, INEC, and other stakeholders to retrace their steps and ensure all actions strengthen rather than weaken Nigeria's democracy. With multiple crises ongoing, safeguarding electoral integrity is critical to avoid further destabilization. Are INEC's measures necessary for credible elections, or do they risk voter disenfranchisement? How can citizens hold authorities accountable to protect the democratic process?