Idoma politicians shun Benue governorship race, focus attention on Senate, Reps seats

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the political gaze of the Idoma people in Benue South has decisively shifted away from the governorship race in Makurdi. Instead, attention is firmly on securing the Senate and House of Representatives seats in Zone C.

IDOMA VOICE observed that the move reflects growing realism among Idoma leaders, who have long struggled to claim the state governorship despite repeated attempts. The strategy for 2027 is clear: consolidate power at home first before chasing the Governor’s House.

With less than two years to the 2027 general elections, the Idoma people appear to have completely shunned the governorship race, perhaps wary of a déjà vu scenario where repeated attempts end in frustration. Instead, political energy has shifted decisively toward the Senate and House of Representatives contests in Zone C.

All eyes are now on the Enone, Otukpo/Ohimini, Obi Oju, and Apa/Agatu federal constituencies, as well as the Zone C Senate seat.
So far, over 50 aspirants have declared interest in the sole Senate seat and four House of Representatives positions in Zone C, turning the race into a crowded, chaotic scramble.

Rather than presenting a united front, many elders and self-styled political heavyweights have been entangled in internal rivalries, forming competing alliances and jockeying for personal advantage.

Analysts warn that if the Idoma fail to streamline their strategy, this fragmented approach could undermine their influence in the National Assembly instead of strengthening it, turning what should be a show of unity into a bitter political free-for-all.
Historical attempts by the Idoma to claim the governorship have been repeatedly frustrated. In 2007, figures such as Chief Mike Onoja, Adah Chenge, Sam Abah, Jerry Agada and Abba Moro contested; in 2015, Steve Lawani and others vied for the ticket; while in 2019, Benson Abounu also jostled. Yet, no Idoma has ever occupied the Governor’s House.

Several Idoma stakeholders lamented the persistent marginalization of their people in state politics:

Chief Daniel Omale, a Zone C elder: “Our people have tried for decades. Every attempt at the Governor’s House ends in frustration. This cycle of déjà vu makes it wiser to focus on positions they can actually win. The Tiv have never treated the Idoma fairly. We are sidelined, ignored, and denied opportunities. It is no surprise that many of our aspirants are now steering clear of the governorship.”

Mr. Peter Abah, political strategist: “It is a painful reality. Every cycle, Idoma politicians put themselves forward, only to be blocked or outmaneuvered. “The frustration runs deep. Our people feel it is pointless to repeat the same mistakes at the Governor’s House when history has shown the odds are stacked against us.”

Meanwhile, other voices urged a more proactive and pragmatic approach:

Dr. Tersoo Ham, political analyst: “Power is not handed over; it is taken. Sitting on the sidelines and lamenting will achieve nothing. The Idoma must unite and present a formidable candidate if they truly want to claim the Governor’s House. Complaining about past injustices alone won’t help. The Idoma need cohesion, strategy, and a credible candidate who can command respect across the state.”

Ms. Juliet Akume, social commentator: “While the Idoma have legitimate grievances, focusing only on ethnicity can backfire. Coalition-building across communities is essential.”

Only a few aspirants have dared step into the governorship race. On the APC platform, Arct. Tony Obekpa of Owukpa is the main contender, facing the daunting task of challenging Governor Hyacinth Alia for the party ticket. On the PDP side, a relatively unknown figure, Oyije Goodheart Ogbenjuwa, has declared his ambition. However, many have dismissed his candidacy as an old joke and observers note that despite his consultations, he is unlikely to pull any significant weight in the contest.

Meanwhile, the PDP remains largely silent, with many top Idoma politicians defecting to the ADC or staying in the APC.

As 2026 marks 50 years since the creation of Benue State, the absence of an Idoma governor continues to fuel frustration.