A sociocultural group, the Cultural Middle Belt Renaissance Forum (CMRF) has called on the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to revisit the zoning of the party’s 2027 presidential ticket to the Southern part of Nigeria, citing significant implications for the party’s popularity and relevance, particularly in the Middle Belt.
In a statement issued by the Forum’s General Secretary, Prince D.I. Onucheyo, the group wants the leadership of the PDP to take a more inclusive approach, recognising the region’s ability to generate leaders capable of driving Nigeria forward.
The group, which was deeply disappointed and indignant, called the action of the party a betrayal of the Middle Belt’s justifiable hopes for political leadership and representation.
It pointed out 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 recognised 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 marginalised and overlooked in the country’s political landscape”
The group highlighted Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim’s exceptional leadership potential, citing his unwavering commitment to the welfare and development of the Middle Belt, adding that 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, it posited.
The CMRF criticised the PDP’s decision, arguing that it came too late, as the North Central and Middle Belt have already rallied behind Dr. Olawepo-Hashim and urged him to remain undeterred, affirming that the region will continue to support him as their preferred candidate.
“We stand united in our resolve to ensure that the voices of the Middle Belt are heard and respected in the corridors of power. We will not stand idly by while decisions that affect our collective future are made without our input. The 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, suggesting 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.
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