According to a report by leadership on Saturday March 7, 2026, The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has responded to comments made by Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri regarding the zoning of Nigeria’s presidency ahead of the 2027 general election.
Fintiri had earlier argued that the presidency should remain in the southern part of the country after the tenure of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He suggested that it would be unfair for northern politicians to contest for the presidency in 2027, explaining that allowing the South to continue in power could help maintain political balance and national stability.
However, the ACF rejected this position, stating that no individual or group has the authority to prevent any Nigerian from contesting for the presidency based on regional background.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, ACF National Publicity Secretary T. A. Muhammad-Baba described Fintiri’s statement as a personal opinion rather than a constitutional requirement. He emphasized that the Nigerian constitution allows all qualified citizens to contest for public office, including the presidency.
Muhammad-Baba further explained that the law does not restrict citizens from participating in elections based on their place of origin. He added that political parties are responsible for selecting their candidates, not state governors or other political figures.
He warned that promoting the idea that certain regions should not produce presidential candidates could weaken democratic principles and encourage political division in the country. According to him, democracy is built on equal rights where every eligible citizen has the freedom to vote and run for office.
“The Adamawa State governor was only expressing his personal opinion. It is not a constitutional rule. Nobody has the right to stop a northerner from contesting in 2027. An election is open to all qualified candidates, and we reject any attempt to manipulate the democratic process,” Muhammad-Baba stated.