The North-East Elders and Youth Forum has cautioned against playing politics capable of undermining the personality and contributions of national heroes, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Spokesperson of the group, Ibrahim Elyakub, gave the advice during a press conference in Yola while debunking allegations allegedly made by Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, against former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.
The group described Shettima’s remarks against Atiku as derogatory and uncalled for, considering Atiku’s contributions to Nigeria’s development.
Elyakub said history has already etched Atiku’s name as a political and business icon whose legacy continues to inspire many across the country.
He added that the comments allegedly made by Shettima were unnecessary and disrespectful to a statesman of Atiku’s stature.
According to him, the forum’s position was not based on political party affiliation, explaining that members of the group cut across different political parties and backgrounds.
The group maintained that no individual, regardless of position, should make statements capable of diminishing the personality and achievements of Atiku Abubakar despite political differences.
Elyakub listed some of Atiku’s contributions to the development of the state and the country to include regional connectivity through the construction of roads from Ganye to Toungo and Jamtari, as well as from Jada to Kojoli.
Others, he said, include technical education through the establishment of the Federal Technical College, Watu, in Michika LGA, and water projects, including the CGC water project in Atiku’s hometown of Jada.
“Northern Education Programme (NEP): Financed this initiative at Arewa House, which held Northern governors accountable through education summits, leading to doubled enrollment rates across multiple states.
“Humanitarian Scholarships: Provided countless scholarships to indigent students and victims of the Chibok abduction.
“Defending Democracy: Atiku led the struggle against the ‘Third Term Agenda.’ Without his opposition to this constitutional breach, Nigerians today would have been singing a different tune,” he said.
He added that Atiku ensured constitutional democracy flourished and that Nigerians continued to enjoy the dividends of democracy “which Shettima is benefiting from today,” among many other contributions.
