Nigeria’s Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF) on Thursday said it would support APC Presidential Candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, in the forthcoming general elections.

Prof. Ango Abdullahi, the spokesman of the forum, said this at a news conference in Zaria, Kaduna state, on Thursday.

•Professor Ango Abdullahi: speaks on behalf of NEF

He said the measure became necessary due to the “unfair and unjust manner” the PDP had treated the region.

“In 2011, some people including some governors supported the incumbent president to contest; it is disrespect for the party’s constitution and in 2015, they present him as a sole candidate.

“This forum is agitating for a candidate from the North and no party has fulfilled such condition except the All Progressives Congress (APC),” he said.

He said that as a founding member of the PDP, he was in a better position to give account of what transpired before the election of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Abdullahi said the PDP had not only denied its zoning agreement as enshrined in its constitution but had succeeded in dividing the country based on sentiments.

“This PDP constitution hinges on fairness, equity and justice to all and that was what made PDP the greatest and biggest party then.

“Therefore, I am in a better position to give account of the party and zoning is part of the party’s constitution and must be obeyed.

“In view of this, Northern Elders Forum will not support PDP in the forthcoming elections,” he said.

The spokesman dismissed fears that the forthcoming elections may lead to the disintegration of the country.

“I do not see any reason why Nigeria should break up, based on the indicators available at hand.

“Remember, there are a few selfish Nigerians who had stolen and siphoned Nigeria’s money, and they would not want us to live together.

“But from all indications, majority of Nigerians want to live together in peace,” Abdullahi said.

NEF is a political pressure group that seeks to protect and project the interest of the region.

On Wednesday, a Northern Elders Council, led by Alhaji Tanko Yakassai also endorsed President Jonathan for a second term.