According to a report by Symfoni TV, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, Dr Bitrus Pogu, the leader of the Middle Belt Forum, issued a stern caution against leveraging faith as a justification for perpetrating violence within Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
He underscored that the populace in this geographical area possesses an extensive heritage of harmonious coexistence, transcending religious divides.
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Dr Pogu articulated these views during a recent interview while addressing escalating anxieties regarding religious disputes and the forced implementation of Sharia law in areas historically populated by Christian communities.
He Said, “A true Middle Belter will not carry arms as a jihadist against his brother.”
Elaborating on the demographic composition of the region, Dr Pogu noted that the Middle Belt is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups and faiths, incorporating Christians, Muslims, and adherents of traditional indigenous belief systems.
He explained that familial bonds and community structures frequently span across both Christianity and Islam, with members living in close proximity without resorting to conflict.
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Dr Pogu emphasised that the Middle Belt Forum serves as a representative body for all communities within the region and is not affiliated with any particular religious denomination.
He noted that leadership positions within the forum are held by both Muslims and Christians, reflecting its inclusive nature.
The core objective of the forum, he stated, is to champion equity, regional development, and the maintenance of peaceful coexistence.
Furthermore, Dr Pogu asserted that acts of violence predicated on religious disparities have absolutely no place in the Middle Belt.
He observed that a vast majority of the populace in the region have consistently repudiated extremism and have actively worked to foster harmony among neighbours.
According to him, the most effective approach to preventing such conflicts is through the promotion of education, constructive dialogue, and enhanced mutual understanding.
Dr Pogu emphasised that understanding the unique history of the region is crucial.
He pointed out that numerous communities within the Middle Belt operated as independent entities prior to the advent of British colonial rule and were subsequently absorbed into broader political frameworks.
This specific historical trajectory has fostered a distinct identity that places a high value on cooperation and non-violent interaction among diverse groups.
Dr Pogu concluded by stating that safeguarding the inherently peaceful character of the Middle Belt is imperative for the overarching development and stability of Nigeria.
He strongly urged communities to reject any attempts by external forces or internal factions to exploit religious sentiments for the purpose of dividing the populace or instigating violence.
His statements serve as a poignant reminder that the Middle Belt maintains a robust tradition of tolerance and that the identity of its inhabitants is deeply anchored in peace, coexistence, and mutual respect for all individuals, irrespective of their faith.