By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The League of Northern Democrats (LND) has reached out to similar other groups in the region, including Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and Middle Belt Forum (MBF), to forge common ground to return power to the region in 2027 presidential election.
Addressing members of the ACF on Thursday during their meeting, the Chairman of the LND, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau said meeting with other northern groups marked the beginning of a transformative coalition for Northern Nigeria.
Shekarau who spoke through one of the members of the LND, Ibrahim Isa Bio, a former Minister of transportation noted that the teaming up required commitment, collaboration and a shared vision from all the groups.
The league of Northern Democrats’ visit to ACF came 48 hours after the Forum had faulted economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s government, saying it lacked human face.
According to Shekarau, “In our effort to rebuild a stronger Northern Nigeria, I am pleased to inform you that we have also held consultative meetings with the leaderships of the Northern Elders Forum and the Middle Belt Forum, and our discussions yielded fruits with agreements in principle to forge a coalition among our four organizations – i.e. ACF, LND, NEF and the Middle Belt Forum. This coalition is not just for today but for the future-a future where Northern Nigeria regains its status as a beacon of progress, culture and leadership in Nigeria!.
“This unified front will complete the long-sought unity of the North.
“The consequence of such a coalition will be profound: political entities such as the PDP, APC, LP, NNPP, SDP, state governors, legislators and even the presidency will be humbled and compelled to support and align with our vision, thus reclaiming the dignity, stability and influence of Northern Nigeria for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today on this momentous occasion. I wish to begin by expressing our heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum ACF for providing us with the opportunity to engage in this critical meeting. This marks the beginning of what we hope will be a transformative coalition for Northern Nigeria.
“The challenges facing our region – poverty, insecurity, illiteracy, religious intolerance, disunity and diminishing political influence – are indeed serious. The North is today in an ugly situation.
“Yet, we all know that the situation is reversible. It only requires commitment, collaboration and a shared vision from all of us. In truth, we owe ourselves and the generations behind us the solemn duty to do so. I am convinced that it is the spirit of this duty that has brought us all together today.
“We recognise and deeply appreciate the contributions of the ACF in preserving the values, culture and dignity of the North. Your steadfast dedication and resilience over the years have been a guiding light. In this spirit, the League of Northern Democrats brings fresh perspectives, innovative strategies and a renewed commitment to advancing the interests of our people.
“This coalition between the League of Northern Democrats and the Arewa Consultative Forum represents a historic opportunity to amplify the collective voice of the North, ensuring our region’s priorities take center stage in national discourse; pool our vast resources – experience, influence, knowledge and finances – to create impactful solutions to our shared challenges; and to strengthen the economic, political and social fabric of the North, fostering an environment of trust, collaboration and shared progress”.
Tribune