Arewa Consultative Forum Denies Leadership Change, Cites Constitution

*TL;DR The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) says no body authorized a leadership change; only its General Assembly can approve such moves, and Secretary General Murtala Aliyu stays in office.

Context Reports surfaced over the weekend claiming the ACF had installed a new leader. The statements sparked speculation across media outlets and among members. In response, the Forum issued a formal denial, labeling the claims false and unconstitutional.

Key Facts - The ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur A. Muhammad‑Baba, signed a statement confirming that no organ or official within the Forum authorized any leadership alteration. - Chairman Mike Mamman Mike Osuman directed the issuance of a disclaimer to correct the misleading impression. - The Forum’s constitution reserves the power to approve or ratify leadership positions exclusively for its General Assembly, the body of all delegates. - The Board of Trustees, which advises on objectives, lacks authority to initiate or enforce leadership changes. - Operational authority rests with the National Executive Committee (NEC), which alone can create operational committees. - The ad hoc Leadership Selection Committee, formed by the NEC when needed, completed its mandate in 2023 and has been dissolved. - Secretary General Murtala Aliyu remains in office until a successor is chosen through the established electoral process.

What It Means The denial underscores the Forum’s adherence to its internal governance rules and signals that the alleged leadership shift was not the result of any formal procedure. By emphasizing the General Assembly’s exclusive role, the ACF reinforces the legitimacy of its current leadership structure and warns against unofficial communications. Stakeholders are urged to rely only on the Forum’s authorized publicity channels for accurate information.

The ACF’s clarification aims to quell uncertainty and prevent attempts by external or internal actors to destabilize the organization. While the Forum reports no crisis, it remains vigilant against misinformation that could erode confidence in its constitutional processes.

Looking ahead, observers will watch for the next General Assembly meeting, where any legitimate leadership transition would be formally considered.