The Role of Tiv and Idoma in Shaping Benue State’s Identity

Benue State, a vibrant region in central Nigeria, owes much of its historical and cultural identity to the Tiv and Idoma peoples, two of its largest ethnic groups. A recent article by Ahemen Desmond, published on Facebook, delves into how their struggles and presence have been instrumental in the creation and evolution of the state. As we mark the significance of this legacy today, let’s explore the rich narrative outlined by Desmond.

A Tale of Two Ethnicities

Desmond begins by highlighting the foundational role of the Tiv and Idoma. “The history of Benue State cannot be fully understood without looking at the two largest ethnic nationalities in the area the Tiv and the Idoma and how their presence and struggles influenced both the demand for a state and its eventual identity,” he writes. The Tiv, who form the majority population, are known for their acephalous (non-centralized) political system, vesting leadership in family heads and elders. This decentralized structure posed challenges for British colonial indirect rule, which preferred a single ruler, leading the Tiv to seek more direct political participation.

The Idoma Influence

In contrast, the Idoma people, led by the Och’Idoma, operated a more centralized system. Desmond notes, “On the other hand, the Idoma people, with a more centralized structure led by the Och’Idoma, had a different form of engagement with both colonial authorities and emerging Nigerian politics.” Despite their differences, both groups shared a sense of marginalization under the Hausa-Fulani-led Northern Region, pushing for a separate identity to protect their cultural and political interests.

The Birth of Benue State

The collaboration between Tiv and Idoma leaders became a cornerstone of the Middle Belt Movement, a coalition advocating for liberation from Northern domination. Desmond explains, “Together, Tiv and Idoma leaders became central voices in the wider Middle Belt Movement, a coalition of ethnic groups from central Nigeria seeking liberation from Northern domination.” This agitation laid the groundwork for the federal military government’s decision in 1976 to carve Benue State out of the old Benue-Plateau State. The naming after the River Benue was a symbolic choice, avoiding ethnic favoritism while uniting the land’s identity.

A Lasting Legacy

Since its creation, the dynamic between the Tiv and Idoma continues to shape Benue’s politics and identity. “While the Tiv are the numerical majority and dominate politics, the Idoma maintain cultural and administrative influence, especially through the institution of the Och’Idoma,” Desmond observes. Power-sharing arrangements often rotate between the two groups, reflecting the state’s plural nature.

In essence, Benue State’s existence today is not just a result of military restructuring but also the Tiv and Idoma struggle for recognition and autonomy. As Desmond concludes, “Their combined demand for a Middle Belt identity gave the state its strong sense of distinctiveness within the Nigerian federation.”

This enduring partnership underscores Benue’s unique place in Nigeria, a testament to the resilience and unity of its people.