The Middle Belt Youth Forum, the youth wing of the Middle Belt Forum has denounced the concept of “Arewa Republic” and distanced the people of the Middle Belt geopolitical zone from the idea.
In a statement, MBYF Leader Capt. Brent Kane described the concept as “laughable and irrational.” He emphasized that the people of the Middle Belt believe in the unity and oneness of Nigeria and would not allow anyone or group to drag them into an “ungodly and unholy alliance.”
The statement read in part: “Our attention has been drawn to a trending secessionist video on social media… displaying a figment of their imagination which they christened the ‘Republic of Arewa’… In this delusional imagination of theirs, they grouped the entire 19 states in northern Nigeria into a monolithic entity… This is not only laughable but also irrational.”
The MBYF rejected the move in its entirety, condemning any attempt to subject their people and land to the “so-called ‘Republic of Arewa’.” The forum stands firm in denouncing and disassociating itself from the idea, emphasizing that the Middle Belt is a distinct and diverse region with its own unique identity, history, and aspirations.
The statement continued: “We categorically reject any such notion and will never be a part of any such concoction… We believe that the 2014 National Conference Report provides a framework for addressing the underlying issues that have led to conflicts and instability in Nigeria… Only through a democratic and inclusive process can the nation truly address the grievances and demands of all its citizens.”
The MBYF urged fellow Middle Belters to stand united in rejecting the “so-called ‘Republic of Arewa'” and demanding a more equitable and just system.
The forum sent a strong message to those pushing for the Arewa Republic: “We will not be complicit in your divisive and exclusionary agenda… We stand firm in our commitment to a united, inclusive, and democratic Nigeria.”
