Uromi killings: Middle Belt Forum condemns threats of reprisal attacks

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has condemned attempts to use the tragic and unlawful killings of 16 hunters who are of northern extraction in Uromi, Edo State as a pretext to unleash violence against Southerners residing in Northern Nigeria.

Recall that the individuals, reportedly armed hunters, were travelling from Port Harcourt to Kano when they met their untimely death at the hands of mobs who accused them of being kidnappers. This has equally been generating tension in the northern part of the country as a result of the threat of reprisal attacks.

In a statement signed by its spokesman, Mr Luka Binniyat, the forum expressed disappointment at the inflammatory threats and unguarded statements from certain disgruntled elements claiming to defend the interests of the Arewa North.

“We firmly state that the Middle Belt denounces such threats and will not be turned into a violent ground for cowardly attacks on innocent Southerners, regardless of their creed or faith. The Middle Belt shall remain a safe haven for all law-abiding Nigerians, irrespective of their origin.”

The Forum urged the youths and community leaders to remain vigilant and ensure that no person or group instigates violence against Southerners over the Uromi incident, adding that any such individuals or groups should be disarmed and handed over to the appropriate authorities.

The Forum assured all Southerners living in the Middle Belt that they have nothing to fear about their people, adding the region will continue to uphold peace, justice, and the right of every Nigerian to live, work, and pursue happiness without fear of persecution.

It, however, added that the Middle Belt comprises Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Bauchi, Adamawa, Gombe, and Taraba states, as well as the entire North Central geopolitical zone, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“While we support the ongoing investigation to identify those responsible for the Uromi killings and take them to justice, we cannot ignore the stark reality that Middle Belt communities have suffered relentless attacks from armed herdsmen, with no commensurate response from the government.

“Although we acknowledge recent improvements in security within most Middle Belt areas, thousands of our people remain in captivity of bandits, and vast portions of our land are still controlled by violent outlaws—primarily Fulani militants. We hope that the swift response to the Uromi incident will set a precedent for a decisive crackdown on these criminals, the liberation of our abducted people, and the reclamation of occupied territories.” Said the forum”.

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