The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has opposed attempts to suppress the right of citizens to criticise the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

The AYCF stated this while responding to a statement from the Coalition of North-East Elders Forum (CNEF), which rejected Ndume’s recent criticism of Tinubu’s administration.

Ndume recently alleged that the current administration is composed of “kakistocrats” and “kleptocrats,” suggesting that the government is being led by the least competent and most corrupt individuals primarily focused on embezzling resources, a claim that was frowned upon by CNEF.

Reacting, president general of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, accused the CNEF of attempting to suppress dissent and freedom of expression, echoing the foundational democratic values enshrined in both national and international covenants.

The AYCF said while these remarks represent Ndume’s personal opinions, his right to express them is protected and should be respected.

“The attack from CNEF against Senator Ndume is vindictive, unwarranted, and an unacceptable affront to democratic principles of freedom and fair play,” stated Shettima, who added that “It is a brutal encroachment on his right to freedom of expression, safeguarded by various international treaties and conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.”

The AYCF also voiced concerns over growing speculations that Senator Ndume might be relieved of his position as Chief Whip of the Senate. They warned that any further attempts to breach his fundamental right to hold differing views will be vigorously resisted and vehemently challenged.

“Any government that cannot be criticized is a liability,” stated Shettima, urging the North-East elders to desist from their indiscriminate attacks on Senator Ndume, whom they referred to as an eminent hero of the Northern youth.

While the AYCF clarified that it does not currently favor protests, it stressed that Ndume’s observations regarding the current harsh realities faced by Nigerians are apt and timely.

They urged the government to heed these observations for the benefit of all citizens and warned the North-East elders against manipulating and politicising security issues for their own gain.

“The observations raised by Senator Ndume should be heeded by the government, as they reflect the collective concerns of many Nigerians facing hardships,” the statement concluded.

The AYCF said it remained committed to upholding democratic values and the right to freedom of expression, and call on all stakeholders to adopt a more tolerant and constructive approach to differing viewpoints.