The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has declared that the Presidency must remain in Southern Nigeria after the 2027 general election, warning that abandoning the zoning arrangement could destabilize the country’s political balance.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting held in Kaduna on Saturday, signed by Oba Oladipo Olaitan of Afenifere, Bitrus Pogu of the Middle Belt Forum, John Azuta‑Mbata of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Godknows Igali of the Pan Niger Delta Forum.
“The position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall remain in the southern region thereof in the next four years consequent on the 2027 general elections in the interest of national political stability,” the communiqué stated.
The forum urged political parties to zone their presidential tickets to the South during congresses and conventions.
It argued that power rotation between North and South has been part of Nigeria’s democratic culture since 1999 and must be sustained for fairness and unity.
On electoral reforms, SMBLF expressed concern about contentious sections of the Electoral Act. It inaugurated a committee to review the provisions and insisted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must remain truly independent.
“That the Independent National Electoral Commission should and be seen by the Nigerian people to be indeed truly independent in handling the affairs of political parties and the conduct of all elections,” the communiqué added.
The forum also urged the judiciary to remain impartial, warning that credibility gaps in elections could trigger avoidable tension.
Insecurity, Economy, And Federalism
On security, SMBLF passed a vote of confidence in the Armed Forces but lamented overstretched manpower. It called on President Bola Tinubu to recruit more personnel and criticised preferential treatment allegedly given to repentant terrorists.
“SMBLF observed with dismay the red‑carpet treatment and incentives given the purportedly repentant terrorists by the Nigerian state and governments of some sub‑national states under the guise of amnesty,” the communiqué stated.
The forum renewed calls for state and community policing, describing the proposed 60‑month implementation period as too long. It cited the Amotekun regional outfit as proof that state policing can be implemented faster.
On the economy, SMBLF demanded restructuring and true federalism, insisting that states should enjoy greater autonomy. It urged the Federal Government to support local refineries and end dependence on imported petroleum products.
The forum also condemned xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, calling for protection of citizens abroad and evacuation arrangements for those willing to return.
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