The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), in partnership with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), on Tuesday convened a Middle Belt Strategy Conference in Jos, reaffirming the region’s role as a decisive political force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing the gathering, COPDEM National Chairman, Rwang Pam Jnr., alongside Middle Belt, Plateau COPDEM Chairperson Ladi Jetro, Nassarawa Chairperson Joseph Wangja, and other leaders, emphasized the coalition’s commitment to fairness, inclusion, and national balance in leadership selection. Pam described the Middle Belt as a strategic swing bloc capable of influencing Nigeria’s electoral outcomes.
Under the theme “Nigeria at a Crossroads: Building the Winning Coalition for 2027,” the conference resolved that the ADC presidential ticket should be zoned to Southern Nigeria, reflecting national rotational principles and ensuring broader public acceptance. “The Middle Belt will lead from the centre by shaping a fair, inclusive, and winning coalition for Nigeria,” the declaration read.
Pam also stressed that COPDEM would not push for a specific candidate at this stage, but will continue mobilizing support for the coalition across the region. “We are not a political party but a political action group committed to building a credible alternative capable of restoring democracy and national stability,” he said.
The conference highlighted key issues including the strategic importance of the Middle Belt as a political bridge, the need for coalition-building over sectional contestation, and the centrality of fairness and inclusion in ensuring democratic legitimacy.
Leaders, civil society actors, youth representatives, and political aspirants present at the conference pledged to strengthen collaboration within the ADC and to actively shape Nigeria’s political future in the lead-up to 2027.
