The Arewa Democratic Youth Stakeholders Forum has accused Barrister Seyi Tinubu of sidelining northern youths in political appointments and party structures, warning that the situation could undermine President Bola Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 general elections if not addressed.
The allegations followed a high-level meeting between the forum and the leadership of the North-West APC Youth Stakeholders Forum, led by its Coordinating Chairman, Hon. Bashir Ruma.
According to a statement obtained by The News Chronicle, signed by the forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Ambassador Salawudeen Shaibu Planner, on Monday in Abuja, northern youths have been systematically excluded from key youth leadership positions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and government.
The forum said it had appointed coordinators for the North-East and North-Central to mobilise APC support groups in response to what it described as the continued neglect of northern youth interests.
It added that the initiative is aimed at promoting fairness, inclusion and equal political opportunities for young Nigerians across all regions.
The group also disclosed that it had directed 1,378 registered APC support group leaders across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory to begin consultations on withdrawing support for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid unless its concerns are addressed.
The forum alleged that Seyi Tinubu exerts significant influence over youth political structures, appointments and support groups, resulting in the exclusion of northern youths from strategic positions.
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It further claimed that youth-related appointments and leadership positions have largely favoured individuals from the South-West, while support groups led by northern youths are allegedly denied recognition and funding.
Hon. Bashir Ruma urged northern youths to remain peaceful and united while pressing for what he described as equitable representation within the party.
The forum argued that northern voters played a decisive role in the APC’s victory in the 2023 presidential election and said their contribution should be reflected in political appointments and leadership opportunities.
It warned that continued dissatisfaction among northern youths could weaken party unity and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections, calling on the APC leadership and President Bola Tinubu to ensure greater regional balance in appointments and political opportunities.
