Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has recalled its National Chairman, Mamman Osuman, who was suspended after declaring that the North would not support President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

This was as President Bola Tinubu extended heartfelt congratulations to elder statesman and founding member of ACF, Tanko Yakassai, as he marks his 99th birthday today.

Disclosing Osuman’s recall in a statement, yesterday, Secretary-General of ACF, Murtala Aliyu, said the lifting of the suspension followed the intervention of the forum’s Unity, Peace and Reconciliation Committee under the chairmanship of the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mahmud Ahmed.

According to him, the contending issues had been resolved amicably for the interest of the North.

“The ACF Unity, Peace and Reconciliation Committee under the chairmanship of Dr Ahmed, the Ajiyan Katagum, intervened in the recent leadership crisis in ACF. It had invited some stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and that of the National Executive Council (NEC), among others for a family discussion on the unfortunate development.

“Consequently, the issue has been amicably resolved in the interest of the great people of Arewa, and the suspension is hereby withdrawn,” the statement read.

Osuman’s controversial statements on Tinubu and the 2027 presidential election were criticised by some members of the ACF’s BoT and NEC as deviating from the organisation’s non-partisan stance.

A statement jointly signed by Aliyu, and BoT Chairman, Bashir Dalhatu, accused Osuman of making unauthorised remarks suggesting that the North would back a northern presidential candidate in 2027.
SPECIAL Adviser, Information and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga, stated, yesterday, that Tinubu, in his tribute, acknowledged the significant contributions of Yakassai to the development of Northern Nigeria and the nation as a whole.

He commended Yakassai for his dedication to public service and advocacy for the rights of citizens.

The statement recalled that as a human rights activist and former Parliamentary Liaison Officer to President Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic, Pa Yakassai’s insightful critiques and advice played a pivotal role in shaping government policies over the years.

His commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding in our society remains an enduring legacy, Tinubu added.

The President expressed gratitude to Yakassai, for his steadfast support during the recent elections and for believing in his vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria.

Tinubu offered prayers of good health and longevity for Yakassai, who was born on December 5, 1925, and eagerly anticipates the celebration of his centennial birthday next year.