The Middle Belt Conscience Guard (MBCG) says the North-Central region deserves a shot at the presidency at the next elections in return for its numerous contributions to peace and development of the country.
The group noted that the zone has suffered neglect since the return of democracy in 1999 and is yet to test power at the national level despite its massive role in the emergence of leaders.
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Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, its General Secretary, Elder Omale Ben Amedu, said a power shift to the south would not only be misplaced but a great disservice to the North-Central part of the country.
“What we must not fail to come to terms is the fact that given the geographical spread of the country, and its inherent peculiarities, power shift to the southern part of the country would not only be misplaced, it would be a great disservice to the North Central part of the country.
“It must be stated in unequivocal terms that the North Central part of Nigeria, which by nomenclature can still be regarded as the Middle Belt, has been integral to the country’s socio-economic development since the return of democracy in 1999.”
Judging by competence, capacity and pedigree, Elder Amedu said Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State is the most suitable choice to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023.
“We also wish to place it on record that the presidential aspiration of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State indeed has the blessings of the Middle Belt region because he is one of us and highly regarded for his exploits, not just in Kogi state but the entire Middle Belt/North Central region.”
Throwing their weight behind the governor, the Middle Belt Conscience Guard said only someone from the region can unite the nation amidst threats of secession from ther other zones.
“His pedigree speaks volumes of a man committed to advancing the country’s cause by unifying all regions and ensuring that the country experiences tangible growth and development, which has been his hallmark in his capacity as the Governor of Kogi state.”
The group said after a stakeholders meeting, it was concluded that with Governor Bello, Nigeria will be in safe hands.
The Middle-Belt forum, however, distanced itself from individuals and groups from the region canvassing for power shift to the South, noting that they are bereft of ideas.
It, therefore, urged all stakeholders, sons and daughters of the zone to show their support for Bello as he proven to be tailor-made for the job.