By Musa Luka
Kaduna, Nigeria –
Daniel Okpen Ejembi has been appointed as the Acting Chairman of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) Kaduna State Chapter. His appointment was confirmed during a valedictory executive meeting in Kaduna, where he took over leadership from the outgoing Chairman, Luka Binniyat.
The transition aligns with the Forum’s leadership structure, ensuring continuity and stability within the organization. Binniyat, who now serves as the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the MBF’s National Working Committee (NWC), emphasized that Ejembi’s selection was a unanimous decision by the executive committee.
Ejembi, who previously held the position of Assistant Chairman 1, received the official endorsement of the Forum’s National President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, along with a formal letter of appointment. In his farewell speech, Binniyat reaffirmed that Ejembi and his newly constituted executive team are the legitimate leaders of the MBF’s Kaduna State Chapter.
Binniyat also issued a warning against any unauthorized claims to the leadership position, cautioning that such actions could be considered impersonation. Dr. Pogu extended his congratulations to Ejembi, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the chapter effectively and advance the Forum’s advocacy efforts.
Ejembi, a businessman, human rights activist, and anti-corruption advocate, has been actively involved in Middle Belt affairs for years. Originally from Benue State, he has lived in Kaduna for a long time and is well known for championing the rights of marginalized communities.
The Middle Belt Forum represents ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria that historically existed outside the Sokoto Caliphate and Kanem-Borno Empire before colonial rule. The organization’s influence spans 13 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), covering communities in Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Borno, Southern Bauchi, Adamawa, Gombe, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Taraba, and Benue.
Ejembi’s appointment is seen as a significant step in strengthening the Middle Belt Forum’s mission to promote the interests and values of the Middle Belt region. The Forum has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and fostering peace and stability in the region.
As the new Acting Chairman, Ejembi is expected to build on the progress made by his predecessor while enhancing the chapter’s influence in Kaduna State. His background in human rights advocacy and anti-corruption efforts is anticipated to be an asset in his leadership.
The Middle Belt Forum remains a powerful voice for ethnic minorities in Northern Nigeria, and Ejembi’s leadership marks another chapter in its ongoing efforts to protect and promote their interests.
Ejembi’s tenure will come with challenges, including fostering unity, advocating for the rights of the Middle Belt people, and navigating the complex socio-political landscape of the region. However, with his experience and commitment, he is expected to steer the MBF Kaduna Chapter toward greater impact and effectiveness.
Middle-Belt Times 