Idoma Forum Warns Of Fresh Attacks In Benue South

Apex socio-cultural organisation of the Idoma Nation, Ochetoha K’Idoma, has alleged that armed mercenaries were behind the recent killings in Benue South Senatorial District and warned of fresh attacks being planned against communities in the area.

In a statement jointly signed by its president-general, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, and secretary-general, Chief Paul Edeh, the group claimed it had received credible intelligence that armed men were gathering along the Kogi, Nasarawa and Taraba border corridors ahead of possible attacks on the area this month.

Ochetoha urged security agencies to treat the reports as an early warning and take immediate measures to avert further bloodshed.

The organisation also accused the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) of failing to act on intelligence it said was provided 48 hours before the attack on the Otukpo Nobi community. It demanded an explanation from the police over why the information was allegedly not acted upon.

The statement was issued in response to an earlier position by the Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) on the worsening security situation in the district.

While mourning all those killed, including Idoma and Fulani victims, Ochetoha disputed MACBAN’s description of the attackers as unknown gunmen, alleging that more than 50 heavily armed fighters carried out coordinated attacks on Otukpo Nobi, Ondo Ogobia and Efeyi communities.

The group further alleged that the attackers were mercenaries financed by Fulani leaders in the area, claims that could not be independently verified.

Ochetoha also called for investigations into alleged social media threats issued after the killing of former Benue MACBAN chairman, Ardo Risku Muhammad, in June, claiming they may be linked to subsequent attacks.

Despite its criticism of MACBAN, the organisation backed the establishment of a Joint Peace and Security Committee involving Idoma, Igede, Agatu and Fulani representatives, while calling on the Federal Government, the Benue State Government and security agencies to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities, dismantle illegal camps and ensure those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.