The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum has issued a stark warning about Nigeria's democratic future, declaring the nation is drifting into dangerous territory toward one-party domination.
Political Crisis Deepens
Following a high-level meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, prominent leaders from Afenifere, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and the Middle Belt Forum expressed grave concerns about the country's political direction. The meeting was chaired by Oba Oladipo Olaitan, leader of the Pan Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere.
The leaders identified what they described as a coordinated slide toward one-party control, driven by mass defections, political coercion, and ideological inconsistencies across party lines. They specifically condemned the violent confrontation at the PDP national headquarters on November 18, which involved a serving minister and sitting governors, labeling it a disgraceful assault on democratic norms.
The Forum strongly criticized law enforcement agencies for their brazen involvement in partisan battles and accused the Independent National Electoral Commission leadership under Professor Joash Amupitan of failing to intervene early to stabilize the political climate ahead of the 2027 elections.
Security Under Severe Siege
On national security, the leaders declared Nigeria is under severe siege, pointing to several recent incidents:
- The killing of Brigadier General Uba in Borno State
- The abduction of schoolgirls in Maga, Kebbi State
- Deadly attacks in Kaduna, Kwara, and Kogi states
The Forum cited reports indicating that the majority of victims are Christians and indigenous communities, while attackers are largely linked to Fulani and Kanuri extremist groups, including fighters from outside Nigeria's borders.
They called on the Federal Government to:
- Halt what they described as ethnic cleansing
- Act decisively to rescue abducted students
- Work sincerely with international partners including the United States
- Immediately roll out a plan to return displaced Middle Belt communities to their ancestral homes
Education and Healthcare Concerns
The leaders also addressed critical issues in education and healthcare, urging the Federal Government to settle outstanding commitments to ASUU to prevent fresh university shutdowns. Regarding the ongoing strike by resident doctors, the Forum noted that poor Nigerians relying on public hospitals are paying the highest price and appealed for speedy resolution.
The communique was signed by three key leaders:
- HRH Oba Olaitan, Leader of Afenifere
- Dr. Pogu Bitrus, President-General of Middle Belt Forum
- Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, National Chairman of PANDEF
The warning comes at a critical juncture for Nigeria's democracy, with leaders demanding immediate corrective actions to preserve the nation's democratic institutions and ensure security for all citizens.
