The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged political leaders to de-emphasise personal ambition and focus on governance that meets the people’s needs.

ACF chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), stated this during the forum’s 715th National Executive Committee meeting in Kaduna on Thursday.

“While we welcome genuine aspirations to serve, leaders must prioritise the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” he said.

He also expressed deep concern over the resurgence of terror attacks in Borno and Plateau states, as well as the recent gruesome killings of northerners in Uromi, Edo State.

He said the spate of criminal attacks across the northern region demands urgent attention.

“Only recently, we were rudely shocked by the sad news of renewed terror attacks in Bokkos, Plateau State, the horrific assassination of northerners in Uromi, Edo State and the re-emergence of Boko Haram activities in Borno State.

“These monstrous, bloodthirsty psychopaths have become a grave concern to all of us in the ACF. Just a few days ago, I watched the governors of Plateau and Borno lament the harm inflicted on their people,” Osuman said.

He added that these security challenges have disrupted peaceful coexistence, leading to the abandonment of farmlands, closure of schools and cessation of trade—ultimately affecting livelihoods.

“These challenges are further worsened by recession, rising cost of living, poor healthcare, and high transportation costs,” he said.

He expressed hope that the ACF’s recently constituted security committee would soon help the forum understand the underlying causes of the insecurity.