The Ochetoha K’Idoma, the primary socio-cultural group for the Idoma Nation, claims they notified the Nigeria Police Force about a looming assault on the Otukpo Nobi community in Benue State two days before it happened. The group stated that despite receiving specific intelligence regarding this threat, security agencies failed to intervene.
This assertion was part of a July 31, 2026, document signed by President General Prof. Yakubu A. Ochefu and Secretary General Chief Paul Edeh. The document serves as a rebuttal to comments made by the Benue State branch of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria regarding insecurity in the region. The leadership demanded an investigation into why their warnings were disregarded and called for accountability within the state security leadership.
The group also reported receiving new information about armed individuals moving toward Idoma territory from the Taraba, Nasarawa, and Kogi borders. They urged authorities to verify these reports immediately to prevent further bloodshed. Regarding recent violence in Otukpo Nobi, Ondo Ogobia, and Efeyi, the group challenged the narrative that the attackers were unidentified, asserting that over 50 armed militia members conducted systematic raids over a two-week period, causing multiple fatalities including children and women. Ochetoha K’Idoma is now pressing the Federal and State governments to dismantle illegal camps and prosecute those responsible for the violence to restore order and justice.
