Nigeria's Middle Belt Forum Backs Emir's Security Call, Seeks Hausa Alliance Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has thrown its support behind the Emir of Argungu's initiative for organized community action against the escalating insecurity plaguing Nigeria. The forum described the emir's call as a model for traditional rulers in the nation's most terror-affected regions.

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The Middle Belt Forum has backed the Emir of Argungu’s call for organised community defense against terrorism.

In a statement released yesterday, MBF spokesman Luka Binniyat affirmed the forum's backing for the emir, who recently urged his communities to mobilize for self-defense against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. MBF highlighted that the Middle Belt is the region most devastated by groups like Boko Haram/ISWAP and other armed factions. The forum listed 15 states and areas bearing the brunt of these attacks, including Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Adamawa, Gombe, Kogi, Taraba, FCT, Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Bauchi, Southern Borno, and Southern Yobe.

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MBF says the Middle Belt suffers most from bandit attacks and is seeking a new security and political alliance with Hausa communities before the 2027 elections.

Binniyat stated, "The Middle Belt Forum has backed the Emir of Argungu’s call for organised community defense against terrorism. MBF says the Middle Belt suffers most from bandit attacks and is seeking a new security and political alliance with Hausa communities before the 2027 elections. The group plans a summit to unite both regions against what it calls ‘domination of a minority.’"

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The group plans a summit to unite both regions against what it calls ‘domination of a minority.’

MBF expressed full solidarity with the emir's concerns, acknowledging his frustration, fears, and determination to protect his people. The forum believes that if a respected traditional ruler from the Hausa heartland can openly encourage lawful community vigilance, then Middle Belt communities, which have endured the heaviest burdens, must also initiate serious discussions on community safety within legal frameworks. MBF views the emir’s intervention as a crucial wake-up call for all Middle Belt traditional rulers, regardless of religion or ethnicity, to emulate this proactive approach.

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We fully identify with the Emir’s concerns. We understand his frustration, fears and determination to protect his people.