Fear in Obi, Atiku’s camps as Middle Belt youths begin movement for Asiwaju
In a notable shift in political alliances, a group of Middle Belt leaders has declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. This development comes after a period of discontent among the region’s youth, particularly those who rallied behind Peter Obi during the 2023 elections.
The announcement was made by Balami, a key organizer from the Middle Belt and an Executive Board Member of the City Boy Movement. Previously, Balami led efforts to mobilize support for Obi, but he now characterizes the transition as a response to what he perceives as a growing acknowledgment of the Middle Belt within the current administration.
Balami cited recent appointments of individuals from the Middle Belt to significant government positions and efforts aimed at improving regional security as key factors influencing the group’s decision to endorse Tinubu. “We cannot discuss inclusion without recognizing when our people are given opportunities to contribute to national leadership,” he stated.
He also mentioned that young people in the Middle Belt are looking for meaningful representation in governance and want their voices to be heard in national development. Balami expressed confidence that his group, in collaboration with the City Boy Movement, will actively engage communities throughout the Middle Belt to galvanize support for the president’s re-election bid.
The shift is noteworthy, as sections of the Middle Belt, particularly in Plateau and Nasarawa states, previously showed strong support for Obi, the candidate of the Labour Party. Nevertheless, Balami indicated that many of those young voters are now prepared to realign their support toward Tinubu.
“Political participation involves evaluating new developments and engaging with those in government,” Balami said. He highlighted that the security situation in the Middle Belt has also influenced this re-alignment, as the communities have faced years of violence and instability.
Balami emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, education, and economic opportunities in the region, stressing that the movement aims to empower young people to play active roles in national politics.
The announcement follows a meeting between President Tinubu and a delegation of prominent leaders from the Middle Belt and North-Central regions, which included figures such as Defence Minister Christopher Musa and former House Speaker Yakubu Dogara. Following the meeting, Dogara affirmed the delegation’s commitment to support the president and address regional issues, including security and development, as the nation approaches the 2027 elections.
The formation of the Middle Belt Youths for Asiwaju initiative signifies an effort to engage younger voters in the political process, reflecting a broader trend of youth-led mobilization in anticipation of the upcoming presidential election. This new coalition introduces an additional dynamic to the political landscape in a region where support for Obi was previously significant.
