By Lukman Olabiyi
A coalition of 77 civil society organisations, known as the Middle Belt Concern, has made a series of bold demands aimed at halting the ongoing violence in the region.
In a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the Citizens Dialogue on “Defeating Terror in the Middle Belt,” the group stressed the urgent need for government intervention at all levels.
The communique was signed by Ier Jonathan-Ichaver, Kiyitwe Gotom, Marie Ene Orgah Esq, Redzie Jugo Esq, Samuel Danauta, and Vitalis Ortese, on behalf of the Middle Belt Concern.
The coalition’s demands include a call for the immediate protection of lives in the Middle Belt, demanding that local, state, and federal governments fulfil their constitutional duties to prevent the rising pattern of killings and genocide.
They also called for transparency in the use of security funds by state governors and local government chairpersons, urging accountability in security spending.
Among the most striking demands is the condemnation of the harassment and intimidation of victims, community leaders, and human rights advocates, particularly highlighting threats against Bishop Wilfred Anagbe for his outspoken stance against terror.
The coalition warned of the growing influence of terror agents within governmental structures, urging that these threats cease immediately.
The group also demanded that security agencies fulfil their constitutional mandate to prevent attacks and ensure justice.
They called for the prosecution of all individuals responsible for violence, including security officials complicit in the attacks.
In an effort to bolster regional security, the coalition proposed the formation of a Middle Belt Governors’ coalition to create a defensive framework similar to the “Amotekun” security model implemented by the South West states of Nigeria.
They also pressed for the formal designation of terrorist organisations, including the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), due to their alleged support for violence in the region.
The coalition also advocated for comprehensive relief measures for victims, including medical support, trauma counselling, and compensation.
They further called for government-led programmes to rebuild destroyed villages and ensure the safe return of displaced persons, as well as the prosecution of illegal occupiers of lands belonging to displaced communities.
In a significant policy demand, the coalition is urging legislators to amend Nigeria’s Firearms Act to allow law-abiding farming communities in the Middle Belt the right to bear arms in self-defence, in line with the constitutional right to protect property.
The Middle Belt Concern underscored that the survival of the region is crucial for the survival of Nigeria as a whole.
The coalition called on the government, Nigerians, and the international community to join forces to end the violence and secure a peaceful future for the Middle Belt.