The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has raised concerns over what it perceives as a deliberate campaign to tarnish the reputation of President Bola Tinubu in the northern region, allegedly orchestrated by a faction of the northern political elite.
According to Yerima Shettima, the President General of AYCF, there is a concerted effort to create disruptions and unrest in the North with the aim of hindering Tinubu’s potential reelection bid in 2027. Shettima alleges that this plot involves setting unattainable standards for the Tinubu administration, with the intention of discrediting it and swaying public opinion against it.
Moreover, Shettima claims that the ongoing vilification and destabilization campaign is specifically targeted at weakening Tinubu’s support base in the North, with Minister of State for Defense, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, being a primary target.
The AYCF views these actions as desperate attempts by certain power-seekers to impede the administration’s progress and undermine its anti-corruption efforts. Shettima warns against the propagation of false narratives and the utilization of obscure groups to undermine the president’s allies and tarnish his reputation.
In response, the AYCF calls on President Tinubu and his team to remain vigilant and steadfast in their commitment to Nigeria’s progress. They urge the President to be cautious of propaganda campaigns aimed at his administration and to focus on delivering on promises made to the Nigerian people.
The AYCF emphasizes the importance of the government staying focused on its objectives, remaining resilient in the face of challenges, and working towards ensuring a stable and prosperous future for Nigeria. Shettima highlights the absurdity of judging an administration barely a year old against unrealistic expectations and unforeseen circumstances, emphasizing the need for fair assessment and constructive criticism.
