The Coalition of Northern Youths Movement Initiative (CNYMI) has raised concerns over an alleged plot to weaken prominent politicians from the Northern region in preparation for the 2027 elections. During a press conference in Kaduna, the group’s chairman, Hamza Bala Lawal, urged the judiciary, security agencies, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold their oath of allegiance to the people and the Constitution, warning against any form of injustice that could be detrimental to the northern region.

Lawal specifically pointed out political figures facing challenges, including former Governor Nasir el-Rufai, Senator Abdulazeez Yari, and Senator Ali Ndume, emphasizing the need for politicians to be cautious and not become accomplices in any plots against the region. The group expressed concerns about moves to destabilize northern parts of Nigeria, particularly Kano and Plateau states.

Lawal also cautioned against attempts to turn the country into a one-party state, accusing the ruling APC of using state instruments to intimidate the opposition. He cited instances in the Court of Appeal related to governorship polls in Zamfara, Plateau, and Kano states, where opposition parties claimed victory at the ballot box, but the federal government allegedly sought to overturn these outcomes.

The group criticized the judiciary for what they called “brazen injustice and theft of people’s mandates” in the Northern region. Lawal highlighted the ongoing scenario in Kano, where the Court of Appeal is facing challenges defending its verdict on the election. He expressed concern about the negative perception of the judiciary among Nigerians, who have allegedly lost faith in this essential arm of government.

In conclusion, Lawal deemed the verdict on Kano’s mandates as laughable, especially concerning internal affairs of political parties, an issue already settled by the Supreme Court. The group called for a fair and transparent electoral process, urging President Tinubu to uphold peace and the will of the people in all electoral contests.