Our patience must not be mistaken for weakness, Idoma Diaspora tells Tinubu

By Chioma Okoye

The Idoma Association USA has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent action to address the persistent insecurity in Benue South, urging the Federal Government to strengthen security measures in the area.

In an open letter addressed to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the association expressed concern over the recurring attacks in parts of Benue South, saying the Idoma people have endured years of insecurity and loss.

“We have shown restraint in the face of sustained provocation, but our patience must not be mistaken for weakness, and our blood is not worthless,” the group stated.

The association referenced the recent attacks on Akpachi village in Ugboju and Otukpo-Nobi communities in Otukpo Local Government Area on July 11 and 12, which it said reportedly claimed at least 20 lives.

It also said communities in Agatu, Apa, Otukpo, Ohimini, Okpokwu, Ado, Obi and Oju local government areas have experienced repeated attacks over the years, resulting in deaths, displacement and disruption of livelihoods.

The group further claimed that traditional authorities had received information ahead of the latest attacks and had alerted relevant security agencies.

It called for a review of the security response to the incidents and urged authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attacks.

The association reminded the Federal Government of its constitutional responsibility to protect the lives and property of citizens and appealed for greater security presence in affected communities.

While acknowledging Governor Hyacinth Alia’s visit to Otukpo following the recent attacks, the association noted that it would have preferred visits to the affected communities to offer support to victims and their families.

According to the group, expressions of sympathy should be accompanied by concrete measures to improve security and prevent future attacks.

The association urged President Tinubu to deploy additional security personnel to vulnerable communities in Benue South, order a thorough investigation into the attacks, establish permanent security outposts in vulnerable areas, and provide humanitarian assistance to affected residents.

It also appealed for efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attacks in accordance with the law.

The group expressed hope that the Federal Government would take decisive steps to restore peace and protect lives and property in the area.

The open letter was jointly signed by the President of the Idoma Association USA, Prince Dr. Edwin Ochai, and the association’s Secretary, Chief Sylvester Onche Steno. Copies were also sent to the Vice President, the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, the Governor of Benue State, the Senator representing Benue South, the Och’Idoma and the President-General of Ochetoha K’Idoma.

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