Abuja: The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has firmly refuted claims suggesting that it endorsed amnesty and payments to terrorists and bandits. These allegations surfaced following a video clip circulating on social media, featuring Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, Chairman of ACF’s Board of Trustees, purportedly supporting such measures.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the viral video was taken from an interview Dalhatu granted to Arise News. The ACF clarified that the content in circulation was misinterpreted and taken out of context, aiming to convey predetermined conclusions. The full interview, available on digital platforms, reveals Dalhatu’s stance, which was largely personal and only intermittently reflected official ACF positions.
In the interview, Dalhatu condemned terrorist activities in Nigeria and West Africa, advocating for the eradication of terrorists and bandits to swiftly address the insecurity plaguing Nigeria. He emphasized that no one in the North or across Nigeria is pleased with the ongoing insecurity, nor are they attempting to defend those responsible for violence.
Muhammad-Baba, ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, noted that Dalhatu referenced the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme to suggest that the government should explore all options to tackle insecurity. However, Dalhatu did not propose adopting the same approach used in the Niger Delta crisis, stating that such suggestions were merely opinions.
Moreover, Dalhatu did not attribute any ethnic or religious characteristics to the terrorists and bandits during the interview. Misinterpretations suggesting otherwise are the result of misleading reactions by certain groups or individuals. The ACF reiterated its position, asserting that it has never advocated for amnesty for terrorists or bandits and dismisses any contrary insinuations.
The ACF expressed its unwavering support for the government and security agencies in their efforts to eliminate terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.