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The Paramount Ruler of the Idoma Nation, His Royal Majesty, Agaba’Idu (Dr.) Elaigwu Odogbo John, has strongly condemned the ongoing wave of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks ravaging communities across Benue South.
Speaking during the opening of the Idoma Centenary Plus Lecture Series 2026 in Otukpo, the Och’Idoma expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and the widespread destruction caused by bandits, armed herders, kidnappers, and other criminal elements operating in the region.
At the event, the royal father led participants in a minute’s silence in honour of victims of the violence that has affected parts of Idoma land.
“Our hearts remain deeply burdened by the painful loss of innocent lives and the destruction visited upon many communities across Benue South by the activities of bandits, armed herders, kidnappers and other criminal elements,” he said.
According to the monarch, the attacks have left many families in mourning, destroyed homes and livelihoods, and forced many residents to abandon their ancestral homes. “Many families have been thrown into mourning, homes destroyed, livelihoods shattered and ancestral lands sadly abandoned,” he lamented.
While praying for the repose of the souls of those killed, the Och’Idoma issued a stern warning to the perpetrators of the violence. “May their souls rest in peace and their killers cannot live in peace in Jesus’ name. Amen,” he declared.
He further vowed that those directly or indirectly involved in the killings would eventually face justice. “Those who participated or supported the killings, indirectly or directly, shall be hunted for their entire lives,” he stated.
The traditional ruler extended condolences to bereaved families, widows, orphans, and displaced persons affected by the violence, assuring them that the Idoma nation remains committed to the pursuit of peace, justice, security, and the restoration of affected communities.
He called on stakeholders at all levels to work together to end the insecurity plaguing Benue South and create conditions that would allow displaced persons to return to their communities.
The monarch stressed that the memories and sacrifices of those who lost their lives would never be forgotten, urging the Idoma people to remain united in the face of the challenges confronting the region.
The Idoma Centenary Plus Lecture Series brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, professionals, scholars, youths, and members of the diaspora to discuss the future of the Idoma nation and chart a path towards greater unity, development, and political relevance.
