The Och’Idoma of Idoma Land, Agabaidu Elaigwu John Odogbo, has expressed sympathy for families and communities affected by recurring herders’ attacks in Benue South, describing the killings as a significant blow to the Idoma nation. Speaking at the Idoma Royal Banquet in Abuja, the monarch emphasized the need for unity, wisdom, and lawful courage in defending the land and preserving the Idoma heritage.

The monarch’s comments come amid ongoing concerns about the impact of herders’ attacks on communities in the region. According to reports, several families and communities have lost loved ones to these incidents, which have caused widespread suffering and disruption. The Och’Idoma acknowledged the pain and suffering caused by these events, stating that the memory of those lost should strengthen the resolve of the Idoma people to defend their heritage within the bounds of the law.

The Och’Idoma reminded his people of the strong and united nation built by their forefathers, emphasizing that this inheritance must not be allowed to crumble under present challenges. He expressed confidence in the ability of the Idoma people to defend their land, culture, and dignity through lawful means, saying, “We are strong enough to defend our land, our culture, and our dignity, not through violence, but through lawful courage, wisdom, and unity.”

The ongoing herders’ attacks in Benue South have raised concerns about the security and well-being of communities in the region. The Och’Idoma’s call for unity and lawful courage reflects the need for a collective response to these challenges. As the Idoma people move forward, they will likely face ongoing questions about how to balance the need for defense with the importance of upholding the law and preserving their heritage.

The Idoma nation has a long history of resilience and determination, and the Och’Idoma’s words reflect a commitment to these values. As the situation in Benue South continues to evolve, the international community will be watching to see how the Idoma people and the Nigerian government respond to these challenges. The Och’Idoma’s message of unity and lawful courage is likely to resonate with many, both within Nigeria and around the world, as people seek to understand the complexities of this ongoing crisis.