Nigerians Reject Coups, Say Afenifere and Middle Belt Forum

Regional Groups in Nigeria Oppose Military Coup, Urge Unity for Democracy

Regional groups across Nigeria have collectively expressed their stance against any potential military coup, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the country’s democratic progress. Organizations such as Afenifere, Middle Belt Forum, and Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) have made it clear that Nigerians do not want a return to military rule, which they believe would undermine the nation’s fragile democratic governance.

According to these regional groups, both the military and the general public must work together to ensure the continued growth and stability of Nigeria’s democracy. This call for unity comes amid reports of alleged arrests of military officers linked to a suspected coup plot. These claims have sparked widespread concern, particularly given the country’s current political and security landscape.

ACF Calls for Calm Amid Uncertainty

In response to the allegations, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a prominent northern socio-cultural organization, has urged Nigerians to remain calm and await further clarification. The group’s national publicity secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, stated that the ACF had not yet taken an official position on the matter. He emphasized that the organization, like other citizens, was still processing the information and needed more clarity before making any formal statements.

The ACF also highlighted the conflicting narratives surrounding the situation. While some reports suggested that military officers were arrested over a coup plot, others claimed that the Defence Headquarters denied these allegations. This lack of transparency has left many Nigerians confused and anxious about the future of the country’s democracy.

Middle Belt Forum Stands for Democratic Growth

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), led by Dr. Bitrus Pogu, has echoed similar sentiments, insisting that Nigerians must protect and nurture their democracy. Pogu described the reports of military arrests as speculative, urging the public to avoid jumping to conclusions. He emphasized that regardless of whether the coup story is true or not, the focus should be on ensuring the survival of the current democratic system.

Pogu stressed that the democratic process, which has been in place since 1999, should be given the chance to thrive. He warned against any actions that could threaten this progress, especially if the coup allegations are confirmed to be true.

Afenifere Warns Against Military Takeover

Lending its voice to the growing chorus of opposition, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere has declared that there is no justification for a military takeover. The group’s national publicity secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, warned that such an action would set the country back by decades and lead to a regression in human rights and freedoms.

Ajayi pointed out that under military rule, the constitution is often suspended, leading to restrictions on freedom of expression and the curtailment of fundamental rights. He reminded the public of the negative consequences of past coups, including the 1966 and 1983 military takeovers, which he argued have contributed to the country’s current challenges.

Calls for Accountability and Stability

Afenifere also called for accountability within the military, urging that necessary measures be taken to prevent any officer from engaging in undesirable actions. The group welcomed the military’s statement denying the coup plot and acknowledged the ongoing investigations into the arrested officers.

The organization encouraged the current administration under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to continue its efforts to re-engineer Nigeria and bring relief to the population. It expressed hope that positive changes would soon become evident in various sectors of the country.

Looking Ahead

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are advised to remain cautious and avoid actions or rhetoric that could exacerbate tensions. The ACF, Middle Belt Forum, and Afenifere have all reinforced their commitment to upholding the rule of law, national unity, and democratic principles.

With no official confirmation from the Presidency or the Department of State Services (DSS), the coming days will be crucial in determining the direction of Nigeria’s political future. For now, the message from regional groups remains clear: democracy must be allowed to flourish, and any attempt to disrupt this process must be rejected.