On Thursday, April 3, the Middle-Belt Forum (MBF) condemned the inflammatory threats and reckless statements from certain groups claiming to defend the interests of Northern Nigeria.
These threats came in response to the recent extrajudicial killing of 16 citizens in Uromi, Edo State, last week.
In a statement signed by the Forum’s spokesman, Luka Binniyat, in Kaduna, MBF explained that the victims, who were reportedly armed hunters, were traveling from Port-Harcourt to Kano when they were killed by a mob that accused them of being kidnappers.
While the MBF strongly condemned the unlawful killing of any Nigerian citizen, including the Uromi killings, they firmly rejected any attempt to use this tragic incident as an excuse to spark violence against Southerners living in Northern Nigeria.
“The Middle Belt shall remain a safe haven for all law-abiding Nigerians, irrespective of their origin,” the Forum emphasized. They urged youths and community leaders to stay vigilant and ensure no group or individual incites violence against Southerners because of the Uromi incident. The statement also called for any such individuals to be disarmed and handed over to the authorities.
The MBF assured Southerners living in the Middle Belt that they have nothing to fear, stating, “Our region will continue to uphold peace, justice, and the right of every Nigerian to live, work, and pursue happiness without fear of persecution.”
The Middle-Belt encompasses states like Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Bauchi, Adamawa, Gombe, Taraba, and the entire North Central zone, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
While supporting the ongoing investigation into the Uromi killings, the MBF also highlighted the long-standing struggles of Middle-Belt communities who have faced constant attacks from armed herders. The Forum noted that although there have been some improvements in security, many people remain in captivity, and large areas of land are controlled by violent outlaws, mainly Fulani militants.
“We hope that the swift response to the Uromi incident will set a precedent for a decisive crackdown on these criminals, the liberation of our abducted people, and the reclamation of occupied territories. Justice must be served across the board,” the statement concluded.
