Failure Of Governance Sparks Return To Primordial Identities, Says Arewa Consultative Forum

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has criticized the manipulation of ethnic sentiments by elites for political gain.

ACF’s spokesman, Professor Tukur Mohammed-Baba, made these remarks while addressing nepotism in political appointments across the country.

In an interview with News Central, Mohammed-Baba emphasized that effective governance should prioritize inclusivity over ethnic sentiments. He highlighted that the failure of governance has driven citizens to rely on primordial identities, resulting in the manipulation of ethnic divisions.

He explained that the federal character principle, established to promote equity, should focus on inclusivity rather than equality. According to him, citizens want good governance, competence, and transparency, and would prefer to see these values upheld over ethnic considerations.

“The major issue lies in the failure of governance. If there is corruption, lopsidedness, and impunity, people are forced to return to their ethnic and religious identities,” Mohammed-Baba stated.

He further noted that the elite’s manipulation of ethnic sentiments has overshadowed the need for competence and functionality in public service.