The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called on Nigerians to demand greater accountability from their political leaders, asserting that many of the nation’s current hardships are being worsened by those in power.
The forum’s stance, as reported by Channels Television, suggests that the escalating insecurity and economic distress in the country are not solely the result of external criminal elements, but are being aggravated by leadership failures.
This call for accountability comes as Nigeria continues to struggle with a persistent wave of banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime, alongside an intense economic crisis marked by high inflation and a rising cost of living.
The ACF, a prominent socio-political group representing the interests of Northern Nigeria, noted that some of the “painful conditions” confronting citizens are being perpetrated or worsened by the very people entrusted with governance and leadership. The group’s remarks imply a direct link between the mismanagement of state resources and the inability of the government to protect its citizens.
Leadership failures and national security
The forum’s criticism focuses on the gap between official government promises and the reality of life for most Nigerians. In the security sector, the ACF’s position suggests that inadequate policy implementation and a lack of transparency in security spending have hampered efforts to curb violent crime in rural and urban areas alike.
The impact of this insecurity is closely tied to the nation’s economic stability. In several northern states, banditry and kidnapping have prevented farmers from accessing their lands, leading to a significant reduction in food production. This disruption in the agricultural supply chain has contributed to soaring food inflation, making basic staples increasingly unaffordable for many households.
By pointing to the role of leadership in these “painful conditions,” the ACF is highlighting that security and economic prosperity are fundamentally linked to the quality of governance. The group’s stance suggests that unless there is a fundamental shift in how leaders are held responsible for their performance, the cycle of insecurity and poverty is likely to continue.
The ACF’s call for citizens to demand accountability places increased pressure on the administration to move beyond rhetoric and deliver tangible results in both national security and economic management. The government now faces growing scrutiny over its ability to secure the hinterlands and stabilize the economy for its citizens.
Explore more News stories from Business Elites Africa.
