The Middle Belt Coalition Movement (MBCM) has inaugurated its Kogi Chapter, with a call for justice, equity, peace and accelerated development in the region.
The National Director of Publicity of the movement, Mr Adams Momoh, who represented the National Coalition Chairman, Mr Kube Dwana, inaugurated the 29-member state executive committee on Saturday in Lokoja.
Dwana said the establishment of the chapter marked a new phase in the collective pursuit of the interests and aspirations of the people of the Middle Belt.
He described Kogi as a strategic component of the region and urged the new executive to promote inclusiveness, remain non-partisan and engage governments and political parties constructively on issues affecting the people.
According to him, the Middle Belt has faced challenges including marginalisation in federal appointments, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, displacement of communities, hardship among farmers and limited opportunities for youths.
He said the MBCM was not established to promote any religion, ethnicity or political party, but to advance the collective interests of the people and promote peace and fairness.
Dwana urged the chapter to collaborate with traditional rulers, community leaders and security agencies to strengthen peace and security, while creating opportunities for youths and women to participate actively in the movement.
He also called on the Kogi and Federal Governments to respond to the legitimate demands of the people for development, security and equity.
The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Kogi Chapter, Mr Aliu Ibrahim, pledged that the executive would work with fairness and equity to contribute to the development of the state and the country.
Ibrahim urged youths, particularly those in areas facing security challenges, to shun violence and embrace peace.
He said the movement would engage political, traditional and religious leaders, women, technocrats and other stakeholders to promote unity and development in Kogi.
Highlight of the event was the swearing-in of the 29 members of the state executive committee.
