Idoma Day Abuja will unite our people, celebrate culture — Coordinator, Ewaoche Obe

 

Speaking with IDOMA TV ahead of the event scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Old Parade Ground, Garki, Abuja, Obe said the initiative was inspired by the need to create a common meeting point for all Idoma sons and daughters.

According to him, while several Idoma socio-cultural associations already exist, there has been no umbrella platform where every Idoma person can gather as one family.

 

Obe, a peace advocate and conflict resolution expert, said the event is designed to strengthen unity among Idoma people while preserving their rich cultural heritage.

 

He noted that beyond cultural displays and entertainment, the gathering would help bridge divisions among various socio-cultural groups and encourage stronger relationships within the community.

 

“The aim is to identify ourselves as one people and promote our rich culture, which has gradually been relegated to the background. We also want to bridge the gap between our different groups and provide a platform where everyone can meet, interact and build stronger relationships.”

 

The coordinator stressed that the celebration is for every Idoma person, regardless of status or profession.

According to him, the organisers are expecting traders, artisans, commercial drivers, civil servants, professionals, business leaders, traditional rulers and political office holders.

 

“Those who matter most to us are the ordinary Idoma people—those selling tomatoes and crayfish, mechanics, commercial drivers, artisans and market women. We are also expecting professionals, distinguished personalities, political leaders and traditional rulers. Everybody is important.”

 

Among the prominent personalities expected at the event are Senator Abba Moro, former Senate President David Mark, former Benue Deputy Governor Chief Steven Lawani, the Deputy Governor of Benue State, the Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, and the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Agaba-Idu Elaigwu Odogbo.

 

Obe also disclosed that traditional rulers and friends of the Idoma nation, including the Etsu of Karu and other dignitaries with family ties to Idoma land, are expected to grace the occasion.

He said the Och’Idoma gave his blessing to the initiative from its planning stage, describing the royal father as a critical pillar of the event’s success.

 

The coordinator further announced that attendance is free, urging all Idoma people, friends and well-wishers to participate.

“There is no gate fee. The event is free for everyone. We want every Idoma person and our friends to come, relax, celebrate and enjoy themselves. We have packaged the programme in such a way that there will be no dull moment.”

 

The maiden Idoma Day Abuja will feature cultural exhibitions, traditional performances, networking opportunities and musical performances by renowned Idoma artistes, including Bongos Ikwue, Joel Amadi, Ice Cute, Akatu, BexmanPS Odugwu, Ejeh 20 and Tico Oyada.