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  • APC E-Registration: Senator Nwoko Urges Members to Embrace Digital Revalidation for Party Renewal

    APC E-Registration: Senator Nwoko Urges Members to Embrace Digital Revalidation for Party Renewal

    By Anne Azuka

    Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State to actively participate in the ongoing APC e-registration and revalidation exercise, describing it as vital to the party’s renewal and future electoral success.Speaking on a political platform on Friday, Nwoko said the electronic membership registration provides an important opportunity for reflection, restructuring, and reconnection with the grassroots. He warned that any political party that loses touch with its base risks losing its relevance and core purpose.

    The senator emphasized that credible leadership is built on accurate membership records, active participation, and transparent internal processes. According to him, the APC e-registration exercise offers a platform to rebuild trust, strengthen party structures, and position the party more effectively ahead of future elections.“This is a moment to choose relevance over indifference,” Nwoko said. “Longstanding members who have supported the party over the years must ensure they are properly registered, while new members who believe in the APC’s mission should formally take their place.”

    He noted that participation in the digital registration process would help the party consolidate its support base and ensure inclusiveness across wards, local governments, and senatorial districts. He added that history rewards participation, not hesitation.The lawmaker further urged party members to see the APC e-registration not as a routine exercise, but as a strategic step toward strengthening internal democracy and accountability within the party.“Let us seize this moment, strengthen our base, and reaffirm the APC as a party organised to win and prepared to govern,” he said.Senator Nwoko also reiterated the importance of strong institutions, unity of purpose, and active citizen engagement in sustaining democratic growth and national development. He stressed that internal reforms within political parties are essential to delivering on governance promises.“As a party, we must continuously strengthen our internal systems if we are to meet the expectations of the Nigerian people,” he said. “Strong institutions and collective responsibility remain central to sustainable development.”The senator reaffirmed his support for **President Bola Ahmed Tinubu** and the leadership of the APC, noting that collaborative efforts are necessary to deepen governance reforms and consolidate democracy.“I remain steadfast in my support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the broader APC leadership as we work together to advance meaningful development across Delta North and Nigeria,” Nwoko stated.The APC e-registration and revalidation exercise is part of the party’s broader effort to modernise its membership database and enhance internal coordination nationwide.

  • Senator Dickson Denies Defection, Says He Remains in PDP While Monitoring Political Developments

    Senator Dickson Denies Defection, Says He Remains in PDP While Monitoring Political Developments

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has dismissed reports alleging that he has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing them as false and misleading.The clarification came on Friday through a statement issued by his media aide, Ajiri Daniels, in response to media reports suggesting that the lawmaker had switched political allegiance. According to the statement, Senator Dickson remains a committed member of the PDP and has not joined any other political party.Addressing the speculation, the senator explained that he is currently observing a period of mourning following the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

    As a mark of respect, he said he deliberately stepped back from active political engagements during this period.The statement noted that Senator Dickson has been receiving condolence visits from friends, political associates, party leaders, and well-wishers from across the country. These visits, it said, cut across individuals from different political parties and various sectors of society.According to the senator, the presence of visitors from diverse political backgrounds may have been misinterpreted by some observers as evidence of political realignment. He stressed that such assumptions were unfounded and did not reflect his current political position.

    While reaffirming his membership of the PDP, Senator Dickson acknowledged that he is keenly monitoring political developments at the national level. He stated that after the burial rites, he intends to consult widely with friends, political allies, and stakeholders across the country before taking any decision regarding his political future.The statement emphasized that any decision taken after these consultations would be formally communicated through appropriate and verified channels. Until then, the senator said he remains a key stakeholder and leader within the PDP.Senator Dickson also expressed hope that the PDP would address its internal challenges and reposition itself, noting the party’s historical role and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.

    He urged members of the public, party faithful, and his supporters to discountenance the defection reports, describing them as fake news deliberately circulated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.The senator further advised Nigerians to rely solely on information released through his official and verified communication platforms, warning against speculation and unverified reports circulating on social and traditional media.

  • Tinubu 2027: APC Chairman Predicts Over One Million Votes for President in Plateau

    Tinubu 2027: APC Chairman Predicts Over One Million Votes for President in Plateau

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has projected that Plateau State will deliver more than one million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, citing the party’s growing influence and the weakening of opposition structures across the state.Yilwatda made the declaration on Tuesday during an APC stakeholders’ meeting for the Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam (PKK) Federal Constituency, held at the MNS Resort Hotel in Pankshin, Plateau State. The meeting brought together party leaders, elected officials, and grassroots representatives ahead of the 2027 polls.

    According to the APC chairman, the party’s position in Plateau has significantly improved since the 2023 elections, with former political rivals now aligning with the ruling party.“All the stumbling blocks we had in 2023 are no longer there. Those who opposed us then have joined us now, including the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, commissioners, local government chairmen, and other political appointees,” Yilwatda said. He described the PKK Federal Constituency as a traditional stronghold of the APC, noting that President Tinubu recorded some of his strongest performances in the area during the 2023 presidential election.“Out of the three local governments in PKK, President Tinubu won two. The Senate seats were APC, the House of Representatives was APC, and most members of the Plateau State House of Assembly were APC. APC has always been PKK, and PKK has always been APC,” he stated.

    Yilwatda added that the party, which once faced stiff resistance in the state, now enjoys a united political front.“Come 2027, I can assure you that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will pull some of his highest votes here, both in numbers and percentage. There is no ward or polling unit in PKK that we will not win. Politics is a game of numbers, and our target is over one million votes,” he declared.The APC chairman attributed the party’s renewed confidence to the influx of influential political actors, which he said has strengthened its numerical and strategic advantage.

    “Today, we have the governor, the national chairman, all members of the House of Representatives, all members of the House of Assembly minus one, all senators minus one, all commissioners, councillors, and local government chairmen. At both state and federal levels, we are now one family,” he said.Yilwatda also announced that he would no longer publicly criticise Governor Mutfwang, explaining that party unity now provides him with direct channels to engage on governance issues.“I will no longer criticise from outside. Now I have access. If the government gets it wrong, I can pick up the phone, visit the governor, and discuss how to do better. That is the right way to build governance,” he said.

    Addressing concerns from long-standing party members about new entrants, Yilwatda assured that the APC’s structure would not be hijacked.“Nobody is coming to take over this party. There are many rooms and many chairs. APC gives equal rights and privileges to everyone, whether you joined today or ten years ago,” he said. He urged party leaders at ward and local government levels to warmly receive defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties, stressing that inclusiveness was key to electoral success.Highlighting reforms under his leadership, Yilwatda pointed to digital membership registration, expanded electoral reach, and plans for a new APC National Secretariat in Abuja.

    Speaking at the event, Senator Diket Plang (Plateau Central), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi (Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam), and Plateau State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Na’anlong Daniel, commended Yilwatda’s leadership and pledged support for President Tinubu ahead of the Tinubu 2027 re-election bid.The meeting attracted a large turnout of APC stakeholders, including party elders, youths, women leaders, ward and local government officials, former lawmakers, commissioners, and councillors from across the PKK Federal Constituency.

  • Plateau APC Northern Zone Adopts Bernard Doro as Political Leader, Backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

    Plateau APC Northern Zone Adopts Bernard Doro as Political Leader, Backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    The Plateau APC Northern Zone on Tuesday adopted the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Bernard Mohammed Doro, as its political leader, pledging full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The decision followed two strategic engagements held in Jos, Plateau State, aimed at strengthening party unity and mobilising grassroots backing for the federal administration.The engagements began with a closed-door meeting between Dr Doro and members of the Plateau State Executive Committee (Exco) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the party’s Kalwa House Secretariat. The meeting was led by the APC State Chairman, Hon Rufus Bature.

    Party sources said discussions at the Exco meeting centred on internal cohesion, alignment of party structures, and coordinated support for the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration. The talks also reviewed strategies for strengthening the party’s presence across the state.Dr Doro later addressed a larger meeting of APC leaders and stakeholders from the Northern Senatorial District in a session open to the media. The gathering attracted serving and former members of the National Assembly and Plateau State House of Assembly, former members of the state executive council, local government chairmen, party officials, and community elders. At the meeting, stakeholders unanimously adopted Dr Doro as the political leader of the APC in Plateau North. They pledged collective support to ensure effective, inclusive leadership and sustained mobilisation for the party and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Responding to the endorsement, Dr Doro called for unity and collective responsibility, stressing that cohesion remains essential to the APC’s strength and electoral success.“ Let us join hands and walk together. We are capable of achieving results if we come together. We can deliver for the APC, and we can deliver for Mr President in 2027,” he said.The minister said President Tinubu had taken bold and sometimes difficult decisions to reposition Nigeria and place the economy on a path of recovery. He urged party leaders to sustain grassroots engagement in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Dr Doro expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him through his ministerial appointment, describing it as a responsibility to deliver tangible outcomes, particularly for vulnerable Nigerians. According to him, the Renewed Hope Agenda reflects inclusive governance, progressive leadership, and strong institutions, with a focus on improving citizens’ living conditions. “President Tinubu is committed to ensuring that Nigerians experience the dividends of democracy,” he said. He also commended the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, for his role in ensuring that the ministerial appointment was zoned to Plateau North, describing the decision as a demonstration of equity and internal democracy within the party.

    Highlighting the scale of the task before his ministry, Dr Doro cited national data indicating that about 63 per cent of Nigeria’s estimated 230 million people are multidimensionally poor, while roughly 30 per cent live in extreme poverty. He said these figures underscored the urgency of effective humanitarian response and sustainable poverty reduction.The minister disclosed that his ministry had recently undergone a review and repositioning to implement clear, actionable policies capable of delivering measurable impact. He assured stakeholders of his commitment to making Plateau North and the state proud through dedicated service, while urging party members to remain united in strengthening the APC and supporting the Tinubu administration.

  • Death of Kano Lawmakers a Major Blow to Government, Assembly — NNPP Chairman

    Death of Kano Lawmakers a Major Blow to Government, Assembly — NNPP Chairman

    By Jabiru Hassan

    The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano State has described the sudden death of two members of the Kano State House of Assembly as a significant loss to the state government and the legislature.The State Chairman of the NNPP, Dr. Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, made this known in a condolence message issued on behalf of the party leadership, mourning the demise of the lawmakers and commiserating with the Kano State Government, the House of Assembly, and the bereaved families. Dungurawa said the deaths of the lawmakers came as a shock to the party and the entire state, noting that their contributions to governance and democratic development would be difficult to replace in the short term.

    According to him, the late legislators were committed public servants who discharged their responsibilities with dedication and a strong sense of duty to their constituents and the state at large.“The sudden loss of these two hardworking members of the Kano State House of Assembly is a great loss to the government and the legislature,” Dungurawa said. He added that their passing had created a vacuum within the Assembly, stressing that the impact of their absence would be felt across legislative activities and representation. Dungurawa noted that the lawmakers played important roles in strengthening democratic processes in Kano State and advancing policies aimed at improving the welfare of the people. He further stated that their contributions to lawmaking, oversight, and constituency representation reflected their commitment to public service and democratic ideals.

    On behalf of the NNPP leadership in the state, the chairman expressed sympathy to the immediate families of the deceased lawmakers, urging them to take solace in the legacies left behind by their loved ones.“This is a painful moment not only for their families but also for the Kano State Government, the House of Assembly, and the people they represented,” he said. Dungurawa also extended the party’s condolences to members of the Kano State House of Assembly, describing the loss as a collective one that transcends political affiliations. He called on political leaders and citizens of the state to honour the memories of the deceased by sustaining their commitment to peace, unity, and democratic governance.

    Praying for the repose of their souls, the NNPP chairman asked Almighty Allah to grant the departed lawmakers eternal rest and give their families the strength to bear the loss.“On behalf of the NNPP leadership, I condole with the families of these great heroes whose contributions to democracy were immense. May their gentle souls rest in peace,” he concluded.The deaths of the Kano lawmakers have continued to draw reactions from political stakeholders and residents across the state, highlighting the impact of their service and the sense of loss within the political community.

  • NNPP convention, Kano NNPP Chairman, Nigerian politics, Rabiu Kwankwaso, 2027 elections

    NNPP convention, Kano NNPP Chairman, Nigerian politics, Rabiu Kwankwaso, 2027 elections

    By Jabiru Hassan

    The Kano State Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Dr. Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, has described the party’s recent conventions at ward, local government, state, and national levels as a strong symbol of improving democracy in Nigeria.Speaking in an interview shortly after the NNPP national convention held in Abuja on Saturday, Dungurawa said the orderly conduct of the exercises demonstrated the party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and inclusive participation.

    According to him, the NNPP convention process reflects a political culture where members are given the opportunity to freely choose their leaders, thereby strengthening democratic values within the party and the country at large.“NNPP has once again shown that genuine democratic practice is achievable in Nigeria. From the ward level to the national convention, our processes were peaceful, inclusive, and credible,” Dungurawa said.He noted that the party’s approach to leadership selection sets it apart from other political parties and positions it as a viable platform capable of delivering accountable governance to Nigerians.

    Dungurawa commended the NNPP’s national leader, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, for what he described as visionary leadership and selfless commitment to democratic ideals. He credited Kwankwaso’s guidance for ensuring that the party remains focused on people-oriented politics.“Our leader, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has continued to provide direction that prioritizes the welfare of Nigerians without bias. His leadership philosophy is anchored on development, fairness, and policies that improve livelihoods across all segments of society,” he said.The Kano NNPP chairman added that the party’s growing acceptance across the country is rooted in its consistent promotion of democratic norms and development-driven governance.Commenting on governance in Kano State, Dungurawa expressed confidence in the performance of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, stating that the NNPP-led administration is making visible progress in both urban and rural areas.

    He said the state government’s policies and projects across key sectors, including education, infrastructure, and social services, are gradually transforming Kano into a model of good governance.“We believe that His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, is making a positive impact. From what we can see on the ground, Kano State is undergoing rapid transformation, and the benefits of good governance are reaching the people,” Dungurawa stated.He further stressed that the NNPP remains committed to consolidating its structures nationwide, using internal democracy as a foundation for electoral success.In his concluding remarks, Dungurawa thanked party supporters across the six geopolitical zones for their loyalty and commitment to the NNPP’s vision. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge stronger ahead of the 2027 general elections.“With the continued support of our members and the grace of God, NNPP will grow even stronger and be well-positioned to win future elections with a wide margin,” he said.

  • Gov. Ododo Felicitates Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma on 67th Birthday, Hails Leadership and Service

    Gov. Ododo Felicitates Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma on 67th Birthday, Hails Leadership and Service

     By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has congratulated Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Senator Hope Uzodinma, on the occasion of his 67th birthday, describing him as an exemplary leader with a strong record of service.

    Governor Ododo conveyed his goodwill message on Friday in Lokoja through a statement personally signed by him. He praised Governor Uzodinma’s leadership qualities and contributions to governance at both state and national levels.

    According to the statement, Governor Ododo commended Uzodinma’s tenure as Governor of Imo State, noting that his administration has recorded significant progress in infrastructure development, security enhancement, and economic empowerment.

    The Kogi governor described his Imo counterpart as a courageous and forward-thinking leader whose vision and determination have translated into tangible development outcomes for the people of the state.

    Governor Ododo further noted that Governor Uzodinma’s commitment to people-centred governance has ensured that the welfare and well-being of citizens remain a top priority in policy formulation and implementation.

    He also lauded Uzodinma’s role as Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, stating that his leadership has strengthened unity, cooperation, and strategic coordination among governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    According to Governor Ododo, Uzodinma’s stewardship of the forum has contributed to advancing shared development goals and reinforcing collective engagement on national issues affecting governance and economic growth.

    The statement highlighted the expansion of the Progressive Frontiers initiative, which Governor Ododo said has helped create opportunities and renewed hope for millions of Nigerians while promoting sustainable national development.

    Governor Ododo also praised Uzodinma’s unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a strong advocate and ambassador of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He emphasized that Uzodinma’s dedication to the success of the president’s vision and his commitment to national prosperity continue to inspire leaders across the country.

    The Kogi State governor prayed for Governor Uzodinma’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength to enable him to sustain his service to the people with excellence and passion.

    He concluded by wishing the Imo State governor many more years of good health, happiness, and success in his future endeavours and public service.

     

     

  • Sokoto ADC Executive Committee Reaffirms Bello Isiyaku Keegan as Chairman, Suspends Three Officials

    Sokoto ADC Executive Committee Reaffirms Bello Isiyaku Keegan as Chairman, Suspends Three Officials

    Ny Jabiru Hassan

    The Sokoto State Executive Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reaffirmed Alhaji Bello Isiyaku Keegan as the authentic and duly recognized Chairman of the party in the state.The decision followed an emergency meeting held on 9 December 2025, where members unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Keegan in a move aimed at strengthening unity, discipline, and internal democracy within the party.According to the Committee, the reaffirmation underscores the ADC’s commitment to organizational stability and adherence to its core values. It added that Keegan’s leadership remains central to the party’s ongoing restructuring and strategic development efforts.In the same resolution, the Committee announced the indefinite suspension of three officials:

    • – Yusuf Alkali – State Secretary
    • – Abba Galadima – Assistant State Financial Secretary (Central Zone)
    • – Murtala Aliyu – State Publicity Secretary
    • Their suspension, the Committee said, followed investigative findings that linked them to alleged anti-party activities, breach of trust, and conduct deemed capable of undermining the ADC’s integrity at both state and ward levels.

    The Committee stated that such acts pose a serious threat to the stability and progress of the party and would not be tolerated under any circumstances.Reiterating its commitment to upholding the ADC constitution and democratic principles, the Sokoto Executive Committee called on all members and supporters to remain loyal, law-abiding, and dedicated to the party’s growth as it intensifies internal reorganization efforts.

    Additionally, the Committee issued a strong warning to **Umar Faruk Muhammad, described as a Sudanese national who is not a Nigerian citizen, cautioning him to desist from parading himself as the Chairman of the ADC in Sokoto State.His actions were described as fraudulent, illegal, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and create confusion within the party. The Committee emphasized that disciplinary measures remain essential for maintaining internal order and protecting the collective interest of the ADC.

  • North-Central APC Forum Accuses Tinubu of Appointing “Wrong People” From Plateau State

    North-Central APC Forum Accuses Tinubu of Appointing “Wrong People” From Plateau State

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has accused President Bola Tinubu of appointing individuals from Plateau State who allegedly did not contribute to his victory in the 2023 general elections. The Forum made the claim in a statement on Thursday while reacting to the rejection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s potential defection to the APC by party leaders in the state.

    The Forum, which has been campaigning for Mutfwang, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, to join the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, expressed concern that key stakeholders in Plateau APC have opposed the move. It noted that these same leaders are benefiting from national appointments despite allegedly failing to deliver their polling units during the last election.

    The statement, signed by Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council in 2023, urged President Tinubu to intervene and ensure that loyal party members are rewarded appropriately.

    According to the Forum, individuals receiving federal appointments from Plateau State are “not those who worked for the President’s victory.” It added that many of them lost their polling units to opposition candidates, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi.

    Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, APC’s 2023 governorship candidate in Plateau and recently appointed APC National Chairman, was cited as one of the beneficiaries of federal appointments. Tinubu also recently nominated Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro as a minister from Plateau State, replacing Yilwatda, who previously served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.

    The Forum further pointed out that even the running mate of the APC governorship candidate—who also lost his polling unit and ward—is being considered for federal appointment.

    “We want to inform President Bola Tinubu that he is making wrong appointments in Plateau State,” the statement reads. “Those who worked for him are being left stranded, while those who did not even vote for him are getting big appointments at the national level.”

    The Forum alleged that the individuals opposing Mutfwang’s defection are doing so out of personal ambition for the 2027 elections, despite lacking the political strength to defeat the governor.

    It accused them of attempting to block efforts to bring Mutfwang into the APC, which the Forum believes would strengthen the party’s chances in the next election cycle. The group insisted that Mutfwang is the only figure capable of delivering the “six million votes” earlier promised to President Tinubu from the North-Central region.

    “These people did not vote for President Tinubu,” the Forum insisted. “Most of them are not politically active and have never served as delegates. Yet they are getting big federal appointments even when they lack political experience.”

    The Forum appealed to President Tinubu to review election results from Plateau polling units to verify its claims and to caution those allegedly frustrating its efforts.

    It warned that continued resistance from Plateau APC leaders could undermine party unity ahead of 2027. “We don’t want any cracks in the internal affairs of the APC,” the statement added. “That is why we are urging Mr. President to intervene quickly.”

  • Middle Belt Forum Rejects “One North” Regionalism, Demands Separate Identity in Restructuring Debate

    Middle Belt Forum Rejects “One North” Regionalism, Demands Separate Identity in Restructuring Debate

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has declared that it will not support any form of regionalism that groups its ethnic nationalities with the Hausa, Fulani, and Kanuri under the old “One North” structure, insisting on a distinct regional identity as Nigeria debates renewed calls for restructuring.

    MBF President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, made the position clear on Tuesday in Ankpa, Kogi State, while delivering a paper titled “Politics in the Middle Belt: The Way Forward” at the National Prayer Congress of the Kogi East Christian Elders Forum.

    Dr. Pogu said the Middle Belt supports regionalism in principle but will reject any arrangement that attempts to revive the pre-independence Northern bloc. He noted that the region prefers the creation of Western Middle Belt and Eastern Middle Belt territories as recommended during the 2014 National Conference.

    According to him, the conference proposal—endorsed under former President Goodluck Jonathan—was “dismissed with disdain” by the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari. He argued that the Middle Belt has historically suffered from political and territorial reclassification that favored dominant ethnic groups in the North.

    He recalled that British colonial authorities redefined the political geography of the North in a way that entrenched Hausa, Fulani, and Kanuri control, leaving Middle Belt communities marginalized.

    Dr. Pogu described Middle Belt minorities as “second-class citizens in their own ancestral lands,” adding that policies imposed by more powerful groups have deepened conflicts across the region. He warned that continued dominance by ethnic majorities could inflame further crises.

    He also alleged that since 2014, communities in Taraba, Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Niger, and Kogi States have faced violent attacks from armed groups often labeled as “herders.” He argued that these incidents have contributed significantly to growing agitation within the Middle Belt for greater autonomy.

    Addressing the rise of ethnic and regional organizations such as Afenifere, Ohaneze Ndigbo, PANDEF, and ACF, Dr. Pogu said these formations emerged in response to Nigeria’s unresolved national question. He criticized the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), saying it was created to defend the interests of Hausa, Fulani, and Kanuri elites, while ignoring the distinct identity of the Middle Belt.

    Dr. Pogu announced that the MBF will hold a major stakeholders’ conference from December 9–11 to harmonize its official stance on regionalism. Delegates from all 15 Middle Belt states are expected to attend and evaluate options for securing the region’s political future.

    He expressed concern about the silence of what he described as the “Arewa political establishment,” warning that Nigeria should not assume that northern political actors have no planned agenda.

    The MBF president urged Middle Belt citizens to unite behind a common position after the conference, noting that internal divisions since 2015 contributed to the region’s worsening insecurity.