The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has drawn a bold political line ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring its unwavering opposition to any presidential coalition that includes former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, as either a presidential or vice-presidential candidate.
In a strongly worded statement, Luka Binniyat, the MBF’s National Publicity Secretary, emphasized that El-Rufai remains “a sworn enemy” of the Middle Belt and Southern Kaduna people. He warned that any ticket bearing El-Rufai’s name would be unequivocally rejected, regardless of the credentials or appeal of the presidential candidate.
“Let me be crystal clear: the Middle Belt will not throw its weight behind any political coalition or candidate who aligns with Nasir El-Rufai,” Binniyat said. “He is not just unwelcome; he represents a history of oppression and division. We won’t take that risk—period.”
Binniyat reiterated the MBF’s allegiance to the pact forged with the Southern Leadership Forum prior to the 2023 elections, which called for the presidency to remain in the South for two consecutive terms in the name of justice, balance, and national cohesion.
He reaffirmed that the MBF, which represents over 300 ethnic nationalities across 14 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, is strategically positioned as a critical electoral force and will only back candidates who demonstrate genuine commitment to ending decades of marginalization in the Middle Belt.
“In 2023, the Middle Belt delivered millions of votes from Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi, Niger, Kwara, Taraba, Adamawa, Southern Kaduna, and parts of Kebbi, Borno, Bauchi, and Yobe—as well as the FCT. We are a political force that can no longer be sidelined or taken for granted,” Binniyat added.
He further disclosed that the MBF is already considering entering into a formal written agreement with any serious southern presidential hopeful—an agreement that would outline shared goals of justice, infrastructural development, equity, and national inclusion.
“This is not about sentiments—it’s about strategic alliances built on trust, integrity, and mutual benefit. Any candidate who chooses to align with figures who have historically undermined the Middle Belt will instantly lose our support,” he said.
According to the Forum, one of the strongest signals of respect and inclusion from a southern candidate would be the nomination of a credible Middle Belt son or daughter as running mate.
“We are watching the political chessboard with eagle eyes,” Binniyat concluded. “Our position is not negotiable—it is built on principle, equity, and the demand for a fair share in Nigeria’s future.”
With this stance, the Middle Belt Forum has not only made its political expectations for 2027 crystal clear, but has also issued a powerful reminder: any attempt to ignore or sideline the region’s interests will come at a high political cost.
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