Middle Belt Still the Most Affected by Terrorism and Banditry — MBF

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has expressed concern that the region continues to be the most severely affected by Boko Haram/ISWAP, bandits, and other terrorist groups.

On Wednesday, its spokesman Luka Binniyat released a statement to DAILY POST that read: “The Middle Belt remains the region most devastated by the activities of Boko Haram/ISWAP, bandits and other terrorist groups. States and areas that make up the Middle Belt— including Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Adamawa, Gombe, Kogi, Taraba, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Bauchi, Southern Borno and Southern Yobe—have suffered enormous human and economic losses as a result of persistent violence by these extremist violent groups.”

Binniyat added that the MBF strongly supports the recent appeal by Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, the Emir of Argungu in Kebbi State, urging his communities to organize more effectively amid the escalating threat of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping in his emirate.

“The MBF fully identifies with the concerns expressed by the Emir. We understand his frustration, fears and determination to protect his people from the insecurity that continues to devastate many communities across Hausaland and the Middle Belt.”

The statement further noted that if a respected traditional ruler from the Hausa heartland can publicly promote lawful community vigilance and collective security, then communities throughout the Middle Belt—bearing the greatest burden of terrorism and kidnapping—should likewise initiate serious discussions on how to enhance community safety and resilience within the bounds of the law.

Binniyat described the Emir of Argungu’s intervention as a welcome development, praising his courage, patriotism, and