Give Idoma chance to Govern Benue – Och’Idoma appeals to Tiv political leaders

The Paramount Ruler of the Idoma Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Agaba-Idu Elaigwu Odogbo John, Och’Idoma, has appealed to Tiv political leaders to give the Idoma people the opportunity to govern Benue State, saying that the idea of One Benue must be reflected in shared leadership.

IDOMA VOICE reports that the traditional ruler made the appeal during the One Benue at 50 celebration, themed “Benue Rising,” held to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of Benue State.

According to Och’Idoma, Benue’s political history since 1976 shows that while leadership has rotated among some groups, the Idoma nationality has not yet had the opportunity to occupy the state’s highest political office.

“In view of that, my beloved Benue State indigenes, we believe that within a short period of years, Idoma will be given the opportunity to at least steer the leadership position of this great state, Benue State,” he said.

He added that such inclusion would give real meaning to the unity being celebrated across the state.

“This will make us understand that the One Benue we are talking and celebrating today is truly One Benue,” the monarch said.

Och’Idoma emphasised that Benue’s ethnic diversity should be treated as a strength rather than a source of division.

“Benue is blessed with rich ethnic diversity—Tiv, Idoma, Igede, Etulo, Akweya, Jukun and others. This diversity is not a weakness but a divine advantage,” he said.

He stressed that governance thrives best where every group feels a sense of belonging and responsibility.

“Benue belongs equally to all her sons and daughters, and governance flourishes best where every group feels a sense of belonging and shared ownership of the Benue project,” he stated.

The paramount ruler said peace and development cannot be sustained in an atmosphere of exclusion and injustice.

“Development cannot thrive where peace is absent, and peace cannot endure without justice, dialogue, and mutual respect,” Och’Idoma said.

He also raised concern over the worsening security situation in the state, noting that insecurity affects all ethnic and religious groups.

“These threats do not recognise tribe, religion, or political affiliation; they affect us all,” he said. “When Benue people stand united, reject division, support lawful authority, and work together in trust, insecurity can be overcome.”

Addressing Benue youths, the monarch urged them to rise above ethnic divisions and prepare themselves for leadership.

“Rise above division and see yourselves first as one people with a shared destiny,” he said. “The next fifty years of Benue will be shaped by your choices, your character, and your commitment to peace and development.”

He called on political leaders and stakeholders across the state to embrace fairness, equity and inclusive governance as Benue enters its next fifty years.

“A just Benue is a stable Benue,” Och’Idoma said. “Equal access to opportunities and top leadership positions will strengthen trust in governance.”

Benue State was created on February 3, 1976, following the split of the former Benue-Plateau State. Since its creation, the state has been governed by military administrators and civilian governors, none of whom has emerged from the Idoma ethnic group.