By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The leadership dispute within the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has intensified, with one faction warning financial institutions and individuals against what it described as unauthorized dealings involving about ₦3.88 billion belonging to the organisation. The warning was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Mohammad-Baba, following a meeting it identified as that of the ACF National Executive Committee (NEC).
According to the statement, the faction expressed concern that the funds remain in a bank account earning an interest rate it described as low, despite claims that higher returns are available elsewhere. It warned that the organisation would pursue legal action against any institution or individual found to have improperly handled its funds.
Mohammad-Baba also maintained that the ACF’s NEC and National Working Committee (NWC) remain the recognised leadership organs under the forum’s constitution. He disputed the legitimacy of an online meeting reportedly held by some state chairmen and secretaries, arguing that such a body is not recognised by the ACF constitution.
The statement further questioned the inauguration of an Endowment Fund Management Committee by Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, whom the faction said was suspended in May 2026 over allegations of misconduct. Those allegations have not been independently verified.
Responding, Mallam Burka Zarma, speaking for the opposing faction, rejected Mohammad-Baba’s claims and defended the legitimacy of the group’s actions. He also disputed assertions regarding membership of the organisation, saying the ACF constitution recognises any Northerner who registers with the forum. The dispute reflects the continuing leadership crisis within the ACF, with both factions maintaining competing claims over the organisation’s leadership and governance.
