The Coalition of Indigenous Middle Belt Organisations is rallying stakeholders to push for the inclusion of Middle Belt ethnic groups as equal partners in Nigeria’s federation.
In a statement in Abuja, Chairman Mr. Timothy Gandu announced the National Delegates Conference set for Aug. 9 to 10, 2024, in Kaduna.
“Through peaceful yet persistent efforts, we aim to achieve our set goals and engage with other ethnic groups to demand the restructuring of Nigeria before 2027.
“Our objective is to ensure Middle Belt ethnic groups participate as equal partners in the Nigerian federation,” he stated.
The theme of the conference, “Restructuring and Enactment of the Peoples Constitution, Panacea to Peace and Good Growth of the Nation,” will focus on consolidating their demands for inclusion.
Established in 2023, CIMBO was formed following a call by the Coalition of Indigenous Ethnic Nationalities for groups to take a stand on restructuring.
According to Gandu, CIMBO believes that Nigeria’s constitution does not adequately represent minorities, as outlined in UN declarations on minority rights.
With over 400 ethnic groups and an estimated population exceeding 44 million, Middle Belt people are among those underserved by current constitutional arrangements.
Referring to the 2014 National Conference Report, Gandu highlighted the need for three Middle Belt zones to be created based on the region’s size and population.
“The Middle Belt has been adversely affected by the non-implementation of the 2014 Confab recommendations and unfavorable policies,” he stated.
More than 100 delegates representing the diverse ethnic groups of the Middle Belt will convene to address key issues such as preserving their identity, controlling their lands, and receiving fair treatment within Nigeria.
They aim to support existing Middle Belt organizations and reinforce their collective stance in the nation.
NAN.