Paramount ruler of Idoma Kingdom, Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, Och’Idoma V, has commended the newly inaugurated leadership of the Ochetoha K’Idoma forum for its commitment to engaging with stakeholders across Idoma land.
The forum has embarked on a series of consultations since its recent emergence, highlighting a desire for unity and development.
The Och’Idoma gave the commendation when he received top officials from the forum led by its president-general, Professor Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, at his palace in Otukpo. The meeting marked the first formal engagement of the forum’s new national executive council with the traditional authority.
The Och’Idoma reaffirmed the vital role of the throne, describing it as the moral compass for all entities acting in the name of the Idoma nation.
“The throne is not in competition with Ochetoha K’Idoma. It is your root. And every tree that forgets its root cannot grow,” he said, underscoring the importance of maintaining cultural and socio-political linkages.
He urged the forum’s leadership to remain resolute in their mission to uphold Idoma values, promote development and advocate for those without a voice in these uncertain times.
“You are the collective conscience of the people. When you speak, let your words resonate with both wisdom and the weight of history. Go and succeed with my blessing,” the monarch added, as he offered prayers and encouragement.
Professor Ochefu expressed profound gratitude to the monarch for the warm reception and invaluable advice given.
He assured that under his leadership, the forum would build on its foundational principles while striving for new heights of institutional effectiveness.
He outlined five primary focus areas of the forum: promoting unity among the Idoma people, preserving cultural heritage amidst modern pressures, engaging in policy advocacy for security and infrastructure, fostering youth development through education and innovation, and coordinating efforts with government and private sectors for economic revitalisation.
“Our customs must not erode in the face of modernity,” Ochefu said, “We will safeguard our heritage while preparing our youth for the future. With your guidance, we shall anchor our agenda on respect, renewal, and relevance.”
He pledged to cultivate a steady consultative relationship with the Palace, recognising its role as a source of wisdom, stability, and historical continuity.
In continuation of their outreach, the Forum’s leadership also met with the elected chairmen of local government areas in the Benue South Senatorial District (Zone C). The engagement was attended by chairmen from Agatu, Apa, Ogbadibo, Okpokwu, and Otukpo LGAs, all contributing to what many described as a long-overdue dialogue about the future of the Idoma people.
During his address to the gathering, Professor Ochefu highlighted the urgency of collective action and the historical context surrounding their efforts. He stated that the socio-economic aspirations of the Idoma Nation must be steered by deliberate planning, educational empowerment, and a unified approach.
He drew attention to underutilised development assets including the Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo (FUHSO), the Otobi Dam, and the vital Oju Road corridor, calling for a concerted advocacy effort to transform these resources into engines of growth for the Idoma community.
