The Middle Belt Bishops Council (MBBC) yesterday urged industrialist, Moses Ayom, to run for president in 2023.
They said Ayom ticked all the boxes and possessed what is required to provide credible leadership for Nigeria.
The coalition, comprising members across different denominations, spoke in Abuja at a meeting with Ayom.
Bishops at the meeting include: Jeremiah Otubo; Adams Abel (Plateau); Jaiyeola Emmanuel (FCT); Archbishop Chanomi Edward (Niger); Timothy Cheren (Benue); David Usman (Kogi); Dr. Emeka Theodore N (FCT); Olufemi Babalola (Kwara); Dr Abimbola Sina (FCT) and Festus Happiness (Nasarawa).
They said they settled for Ayom after extensive prayers and careful sifting of other persons from the region.
The Middle Belt, they said, was tired of being “mere passengers and onlookers” in the Nigerian political space, adding that “the impression is being created that political power at the highest echelon is a ping pong game between the far North and the South while the Middle Belt is a mere net to be used in scoring points.
“We as spiritual fathers and watchers in the Middle Belt have therefore, decided it is time for us to also stake our claims in this project called Nigeria.”
They added: “After extensive prayers and a careful sifting of the galaxy of stars who have distinguished themselves in various fields, it is our considered conclusion that you are our best option and you tick all the boxes and possess all it takes to provide credible leadership to our great country Nigeria.
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“We have followed your trajectory in life, rising from a very humble background in Ihugh and in Vandeikya, Benue State, to the world-renowned industrialist and global entrepreneur that you are today.
“Like the biblical leader Moses, we have observed your tireless energy, your compassion, your philanthropy, your honesty, your expansive vision and your detribalized passion for Nigeria.
“Like Moses in the bible, we perceive the voice of God beckoning on you from the burning bush of service to answer the clarion call by throwing in your hat into the ring of the contest for the seat of president come 2023 by the grace of God.”
Ayom thanked the clerics for the invitation but sought time to pray and consult national leaders.
Ayom said: ‘While I appreciate the confidence you have expressed in me, I cannot provide the answer you require right now. You all know that the presidency of Nigeria cannot be realised by one part alone.
“It requires a broad-based consensus of Nigerians working together for the common good. I will therefore seek the face of God and also consult leaders nationwide before coming to a decision.
“I want to however, assure you all that whatever the outcome of the consultations, I am prepared to give my utmost for the progress of Nigeria. Already, President Muhammadu Buhari has laid a solid foundation for recovery. Whoever comes after him must therefore build on this foundation for the greater good of our nation.”