A rift has emerged among prominent groups in the Northern states regarding recent policies implemented by the Bola Tinubu administration, with some viewing them as detrimental to the region.
The latest of such is the relocation of key departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from Abuja to Lagos.
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has emerged as a vocal critic, arguing that the move undermines Abuja’s status as the capital city and carries negative financial implications for the CBN and the nation.
Spokesperson Abdul-Azeez Suleiman warned against the President’s “sectional considerations,” accusing him of policies that “further impoverish the North” while enriching other parts. He threatened political consequences in the 2027 elections if Tinubu fails to address these concerns.
His said: “We are not a forum that whitewashes or smears any administration, including that of Tinubu. We have established a standard of judgment that we will not compromise, which is characterised by being respectful and responsible in our relationships with leaders at all levels, and speaking truth to power. We will not lower the bar when it comes to the interests of the North, the unity and security of Nigeria, or the welfare of all citizens.
“It is our duty to remind President Tinubu that his policies, many of which appear to further impoverish the North while enriching other parts of the country, have resulted in hunger stalking millions of homes. Inflation is making life increasingly difficult, people are losing their jobs, businesses are closing down, and infrastructure is decaying.”
However, not all Northern voices share NEF’s stance. The Arewa Think Tank, in collaboration with 19 Northern-based CSOs, expressed support for Tinubu. Chief Convener Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu downplayed the relocation’s significance, arguing that it pales in comparison to issues like banditry and economic hardship. He criticised Northerners for focusing on regional gains under previous administrations and urged them to prioritise national interests.
Elder Sunday Oibe, Secretary of Northern CAN, echoed this sentiment, urging citizens to move beyond regional perspectives. He said there is a need to address pressing national issues like inflation and currency depreciation, suggesting that the relocations could be a solution if they improve efficiency.
