GROUP CONDEMNS BRUTAL ATTACKS ON IDOMA COMMUNITY BY SUSPECTED HERDSMEN

The Ochetoha K’Idoma National Forum has expressed outrage and deep sorrow over the recent violent attack on the Edikwu Ankpali community in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State by suspected herdsmen. In a statement, Secretary General of the group, Chief Dr. Paul Edeh, condemned the attack, which claimed several lives and resulted in the abduction of some residents from the nearby Ijaha community.

Dr. Edeh said the group extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims in Edikwu Ankpali and the surrounding communities, particularly those who have lost loved ones in this senseless act of violence. “We also pray for strength and comfort for the abducted residents and their families during this harrowing time,” Dr. Edeh added.

The Ochetoha K’Idoma National Forum is deeply troubled by the escalating frequency and brutality of these attacks, which have now extended to Edikwu Ankpali near Ugbokpo, the headquarters of Apa LGA. Prof. Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, President General of the group, noted that despite urgent calls for intervention, the lack of decisive action by security agencies has emboldened the perpetrators, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable.

The group has called on the Federal Government and the Benue State Government to demonstrate the political will to implement measures to protect the lives and property of the Idoma people. They also urged the government to enforce existing laws, including the Open Grazing Prohibition Law, and deploy all necessary resources to halt these attacks.

The Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC), led by the Och’Idoma, HRM Dr. John Odogbo, has also issued a press statement following an emergency meeting with Local Government Council Chairmen in Idoma land. The IATC expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives and ordered all Fulani herdsmen to vacate farmlands in the zone to enable farmers to resume agricultural activities without threat or intimidation.

Dr. Edeh commended the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for promptly delegating his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Paul Biam, who led all the Security Chiefs to Apa for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. However, the group strongly urged the Governor to ensure that no stone is left unturned until all perpetrators of this violence are apprehended and brought to justice.