by D.I.G. Potter L. Dabup (rtd)
In the Region of the Middle-Belt, there are more than two hundred ethnic nationalities occupying its landscape. Because of this, various groups have been formed in addition to those already in existence, to pursue the objectives of the Region:- The more arrows aimed at the same target, the better is the chance of winning the battle; in other words, the more the merrier.
We are very mindful of the divide-and-rule tactics of our detractors, who will attempt, or are already setting up, one group against the other, so as to make it impossible for us to achieve our goals. Moreover, if we engage one another in unprofitable disputes, responsible public authorities – who would ordinarily have helped our cause – may distance themselves from our plight and, thereby, make us more vulnerable to attacks by our self-appointed enemies.
This will not benefit anyone of us except those, who are stooges in the service of our adversaries. It is better to take proactive action to stem the evil tide. We should not be deterred, because a decent future is the reward of the just. For some decades, the people in the Middle-Belt Region have suffered wanton deprivation, while the entire region has suffered inconceivable neglect. A large majority of Middle-Belters went through winding drudgery, but kept their fate in their hands, since no one was willing to give them genuine and free assistance.
Admittedly, the struggle for a Middle-Belt Region has been tough, rough and protracted. The prevailing political climate in the country has further empowered a renewed awareness among the men and women of the region, who are now involved in their various fighting for the actualization of the region.
The Middle-Belt Media Network will endeavour to propagate the aspirations of the people of the region. We shall not compromise our stand. One could only kill someone with an idea, but cannot kill the idea with him.
In fact, the Middle-Belt Region is a reality and, indeed in practice, given the homogeneity of her people and cultures, and the harmony of various faiths in the Region.
We acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifices of people like Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Lulu Briggs, of the Niger Delta, and the people of the Southwest Region represented by the Afenifere in their struggle for a just and true Federal Structure for Nigeria and commiserate with them on the supreme price they paid for democracy in the death of Chief Moshood Abiola and other compatriots.
We appreciate very much the supreme sacrifice that Chief Edward Clark is making, and still fighting for the liberation of the oppressed in the country even at his age of over 96 years. We extend our hands of solidarity to the people of the Niger Delta of the South-South Region in their fight against environmental degradation and equitable share from the proceeds of their natural resources. We endorse their quest for justice and genuine regional autonomy in a united, true and balanced Federation of the country.
We sympathize with the Igbo of the South-East Region and their struggle just like ours for self-determination and their marginalization. We also call for the immediate release of Kanu. It is unjust to keep him in prison after the court has lawfully set him free. We support an Ndigbo Region where the pursuit of business, career and happiness will be unhindered, and where self-worth and self-respect are accorded their real values within a truly Federal Nigeria.
Excellent write-up
Outstanding feature