ACF BoT voids chair’s suspension, calls action illegal

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) is embroiled in an internal dispute, with its Board of Trustees (BoT) vehemently rejecting the purported suspension of its chairman, Bashir Dalhatu. The BoT has unequivocally labeled the action as illegal, reckless, and a direct violation of the forum's constitution. According to the trustees, a small faction within the forum convened an illegitimate meeting to level baseless accusations against Dalhatu. They assert that the National Executive Council (NEC) has no power to interfere with the leadership of the BoT, emphasizing that such actions are a dangerous display of indiscipline and an attempt to destabilize the organization. This internal strife, particularly the alleged involvement of the former Secretary-General, Murtala Aliyu, whose tenure has expired, is seen by the BoT as a calculated move to tarnish the ACF's reputation. The BoT has initiated a thorough investigation into these 'treacherous' actions, aiming to protect the hard-earned image of this vital northern socio-political organization. Despite these challenges, the forum insists it remains united and focused on its mandate, attributing the controversy to the 'self-serving machinations' of a former officer unwilling to accept the end of his term. From our perspective at The Punch, these internal squabbles, while regrettable, highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity and focus of the ACF amidst external pressures and internal disagreements. The swift and decisive response from the BoT demonstrates a commitment to constitutional order and the preservation of the forum's foundational principles, a stance that resonates deeply within the region's socio-political landscape.

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The National Executive Council of ACF lacks the authority whatsoever to make any legal pronouncement on the leadership of the Board of Trustees. It has no powers under our Constitution to appoint, suspend or remove any member of the Board of Trustees, let alone its chairman.