By David Odama
The Idoma Association USA has called on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to end the wave of violent attacks in Benue South Senatorial District, urging the Federal Government to deploy military and other security personnel to protect communities under persistent assault by suspected armed herders.
In an open letter addressed to the President, the association described the recurring attacks across Idoma communities as a national security emergency that requires urgent intervention. The petition was signed by the association’s President, Prince Dr. Edwin Ochai, and Secretary, Chief Sylvester Onche Steno, with copies sent to key government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and elected representatives.
According to the group, suspected armed herders launched attacks on Akpachi village in Ugboju and Otukpo Nobi communities in Otukpo Local Government Area on July 11 and 12, 2026. The attacks reportedly claimed at least 20 lives, left dozens injured, and destroyed several homes.
The association said the latest violence forms part of a prolonged pattern of attacks that has affected several local government areas in Benue South, including Agatu, Apa, Otukpo, Ohimini, Okpokwu, Ado, Obi and Oju, resulting in hundreds of deaths and widespread displacement over the past decade.
It also expressed concern that the attacks allegedly occurred despite advance intelligence said to have been received by the Och’Idoma and passed to relevant security agencies before the incidents. The group questioned why the reported warnings failed to prevent the killings, arguing that citizens deserve effective protection when credible security information is available.
The association praised Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for visiting the affected communities, describing the visit as a welcome show of solidarity. However, it stressed that expressions of sympathy must be backed by concrete security measures to prevent further attacks.
Among its demands, the association called for the immediate deployment of security forces to vulnerable communities, a comprehensive investigation into the repeated attacks, the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, an inquiry into the alleged failure to act on intelligence reports, the establishment of permanent security outposts, and humanitarian assistance for victims and displaced families.
The group maintained that the Idoma people have remained peaceful despite years of violence but urged the Federal Government to act decisively to restore security, deliver justice, and prevent further loss of lives.
