Ochetoha: Idoma Organisation Raises Fresh Alarm Over Benue South Killings, Faults MACBAN

Ochetoha K’Idoma, the primary socio-cultural organization for the Idoma Nation, has issued a stark warning regarding escalating violence in Benue South Senatorial District. The group alleges that armed mercenaries are operating in the area and reports suggest an increase in fighter numbers along border communities, potentially signaling further attacks.

The organization has specifically demanded an explanation from the Nigeria Police Force. Ochetoha claims it provided specific intelligence about an impending attack on the Otukpo Nobi community 48 hours prior, yet no preventive action was taken. They urge security agencies to treat fresh reports of armed movements near the Kogi, Nasarawa, and Taraba border corridors as an urgent early warning.

These concerns were articulated in a rejoinder to a statement by the Benue State Chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), which addressed the deteriorating security situation. Ochetoha, while mourning the loss of lives across ethnic groups, contested MACBAN's description of the perpetrators as unknown assailants.

Ochetoha asserts that over 50 heavily armed militia fighters have conducted coordinated raids in affected communities over the past two weeks, resulting in civilian deaths, including women and children. The group points to victims at the Federal University Otukpo Teaching Hospital as evidence of the attacks' severity and calls for a thorough investigation into those responsible. Ochetoha further alleges that these attackers are mercenaries hired by "Fulani leaders in the zone," not indigenous to the area, and that the attacks show signs of planning and coordination.