The Mbula community has voiced its opposition to being excluded from the proposed Bengo State, a new entity to be carved out of Adamawa State.
The group is called for equitable representation, citing concerns over marginalization and lack of consultation in the formation of the proposed new state.
Speaking at a press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre in Yola, the Mbula Community Elders’ Forum, distanced itself from the proposed state, condemning what it described as an attempt to sideline the Mbula Nation.
Led by its Chairman, Group Capt. Thomas Kwem (rtd) and General Secretary, Chief Elisha Nicodemus, the forum criticized the composition of Bengo State, arguing that it disregards the political, cultural, and social rights of the Mbula people.
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“While we acknowledge the aspirations for administrative efficiency and economic growth cited in the proposal, the exclusion of the Mbula people from meaningful representation in the proposed state structure underscores a persistent pattern of neglect and discrimination,” the forum said.
The elders also condemned the lack of consultation in the drafting process, stating that the Mbula Nation was not engaged before the proposal surfaced online.
“The proposed Bengo State, which is widely circulating on social media, was drafted without any consultation with the Mbula Nation,” they added.
The community urged the relevant authorities to adopt a more inclusive and transparent approach to state creation, ensuring that all ethnic groups are fairly represented in the decision-making process.