Abuja, Nigeria –
The Cultural Middle Belt Renaissance Forum (CMRF) has vehemently condemned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Executive Committee’s decision to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the Southern part of Nigeria.
In a statement signed by Prince D.I. Onucheyo, General Secretary of the forum, the group expressed profound disappointment and outrage, describing the move as a betrayal of the Middle Belt’s legitimate aspirations for political representation and leadership.
The CMRF asserted that the Middle Belt region boasts credible, visionary, and seasoned leaders with the requisite experience, integrity, and innovative ideas to steer Nigeria out of its current socio-economic challenges. The statement read: “The Middle Belt deserves better. Nigeria deserves better. It’s high time our political leaders recognized the region’s potential and allowed us the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s leadership.” This assertion underscores the region’s frustration with being marginalized and overlooked in the country’s political landscape.
The group specifically highlighted Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim’s exceptional leadership potential, citing his unwavering commitment to the welfare and development of the Middle Belt. “Leaders like Dr. Hashim, with his dedication to the region’s progress and proven track record, make him an ideal candidate to represent the Middle Belt in the 2027 presidential election.” This endorsement underscores Dr. Olawepo-Hashim’s popularity and credibility within the region.
The CMRF criticized the PDP’s decision, arguing that it came too late, as the North Central and Middle Belt have already rallied behind Dr. Olawepo-Hashim. The group urged Dr. Olawepo-Hashim to remain undeterred, affirming that the region will continue to support him as their preferred candidate. This show of solidarity highlights the region’s determination to have its voice heard and its interests represented.
The CMRF called on the PDP leadership to revisit the zoning decision and adopt a more inclusive approach, acknowledging the region’s capacity to produce leaders who can drive Nigeria’s progress. “We stand united in our resolve to ensure that the voices of the Middle Belt are heard and respected in the corridors of power,” the group declared. “We will not stand idly by while decisions that affect our collective future are made without our input.” This resolute stance underscores the region’s commitment to fighting for its rights and interests.
The CMRF highlights the deep-seated frustration and disillusionment among the Middle Belt people, who feel marginalized and excluded from the country’s political process. According to the he group, their demand for a presidential ticket is not just about political representation but also about recognizing the region’s potential and contributions to Nigeria’s development.
They also disclosed, that the PDP’s decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South without consulting the Middle Belt region has significant implications for the party’s popularity and relevance in the region, suggests that the party may lose significant support from the Middle Belt if it fails to revisit its decision and adopt a more inclusive approach.
They further affirmed that their concern underscores the importance of leadership and representation in Nigeria’s political landscape, while their endorsement of Dr. Olawepo-Hashim highlights his credibility and popularity within the region, and his potential to drive Nigeria’s progress.
