See how the new Ochidoma Palace will look like

Following the final approval today of the architectural design for the reconstruction and renovation of the Och’ Idoma palace by His Royal Majesty, Agabaidu Dr. Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, Och’Idoma IV and the Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC), the reconstruction work is to commence immediately.

This was disclosed by Benue State Deputy Governor, Engr. Benson Abounu, who led the building architect, and other top government officials to the Och’Idoma palace where, with input from His Royal Majesty, the design was fine-tuned and finally approved.

He explained that efforts to do this earlier was unsuccessful as His Royal Majesty was indisposed, and away from the state, when they came to the palace to get his input.

He stated that the initial design, which was first done in 2018, and had to be modified to reflect present realities, has several facilities that fit the palace of the status of the Paramount ruler of the Idoma nation.

Also speaking, Engr. Agaba Ikwue, the MD/CEO of Intra Engineering and Turnkey Ltd, the firm handling the project explained that the edifice consists of the main palace, an administrative building, a service quarter, and a clinic, with facilities such as gym, library, and a museum included.

In his comments, the Och’Idoma, Agabaidu Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, thanked the Deputy Governor, Engr Benson Abounu and Governor Samuel Ortom for the project, which he said is heartwarming.

He praised Engr. Abounu for his passion and interest in the.execution of the project, and assured the contractor of his support and that of the Idoma Area Traditional Council as they commence work on it.

The First Class Chief of Apa/ Agatu Intermediate Traditional council, Chief Baba Odangla, that of Otukpo/Ohimini Intermediate Traditional council, Chief Emmanuel Okochi, the Oche k’ Apa, Chief John Antenyi, the Ada Ohimini, Chief John Ochai, and the Ada Okpokwu, Chief James Okefe were among the many traditional rulers at the meeting.