Middle Belt Youths Reject Arewa Republic

Makurdi, August 13, 2024 The Middle Belt Youth Forum (MBYF), the youth wing of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), has strongly denounced the proponents of the so-called “Arewa Republic” and has firmly distanced the people of the Middle Belt geopolitical zone from the idea.

In a statement issued by its leader, Captain Brent Kane, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi, the MBYF described the concept as “laughable and irrational.” Captain Kane emphasized that the people of the Middle Belt believe in the unity and oneness of Nigeria and will not allow any group or individuals to drag them into any “ungodly and unholy alliance.”

The statement partly read: “Our attention has been drawn to a trending secessionist video on social media, where certain individuals and groups are displaying a figment of their imagination that they have named the ‘Republic of Arewa.’ These individuals have gone as far as to create state paraphernalia, such as a flag, logo, map, and coat of arms, and perhaps even an anthem.”

He continued, “In this delusional imagination, they have grouped the entire 19 states in northern Nigeria into a monolithic entity, which they have christened the ‘Republic of Arewa.’ This is not only laughable but also irrational. The leadership and members of the Middle Belt Youth Forum reject this move in its entirety and condemn any attempt to subject our people and land to any unholy alliance with the so-called ‘Republic of Arewa.'”

Captain Kane made it clear that the Middle Belt Forum stands firm in denouncing and disassociating itself from the “Republic of Arewa.” He categorically stated, “We reject any such notion and will never be part of any such concoction.”

The statement further highlighted that the Middle Belt is a distinct and diverse region with its own unique identity, history, and aspirations. “The Middle Belt region, as distinctively constituted, comprises the following states in their entirety: Adamawa, Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Niger, Kwara, Taraba, Gombe, and of course, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Additionally, the southern parts of Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kebbi, and Yobe states are also part of the Middle Belt.”

The statement reiterated that the aforementioned states represent the true geographical identity of the Middle Belt Region of Nigeria. “We, the people of this entire region, do not identify with the ideological and political framework of any so-called ‘Republic of Arewa,’ and we vehemently oppose any attempt to forcibly include us in such a union.”

Captain Kane also emphasized the importance of revisiting the 2014 National Conference Report, where all regions and ethnic groups were given a platform to express their views and concerns. “We believe that the report provides a framework for addressing the underlying issues that have led to conflicts and instability in Nigeria, which in turn have spurred secessionist movements in parts of the country.”

He stressed that only through a democratic and inclusive process can the nation truly address the grievances and demands of all its citizens. “We, therefore, urge our fellow Middle Belters to stand united in rejecting the so-called ‘Republic of Arewa’ and in demanding a more equitable and just system that respects the rights and aspirations of all Nigerians.”

The MBYF warned those pushing for the Arewa Republic that the Middle Belt would not be complicit in their divisive and exclusionary agenda. “We stand firm in our commitment to a united, inclusive, and democratic Nigeria, and we will continue to fight for our rights and our place in this nation.”

He concluded by emphasizing the value of cultural and ethnic diversity within the Middle Belt, which the MBYF will continue to cherish and uphold. “We hold our unique identity in high regard and will continue to thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s rich tapestry of cultures and communities.

Teekay Adams