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

The Idoma Association USA has implored President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action against the ongoing insecurity plaguing Benue South, Nigeria, and to bolster federal security measures in the region.

In an open letter to the President, the association voiced deep concern over repeated attacks in parts of Benue South, emphasizing that the Idoma people have endured years of violence, displacement, 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, highlighting their frustration.

The association pointed to recent attacks on Akpachi village and Otukpo-Nobi communities on July 11 and 12, which reportedly resulted in at least 20 fatalities. They also noted that numerous communities across Agatu, Apa, Otukpo, Ohimini, Okpokwu, Ado, Obi, and Oju local government areas have suffered repeated assaults over the years, leading to deaths, displacement, and disrupted livelihoods.

Despite claims that traditional authorities had alerted security agencies to impending attacks, the association called for a review of the security response and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these incidents. They reminded the federal government of its constitutional duty to protect citizens and appealed for a greater security presence in vulnerable areas. While acknowledging Governor Hyacinth Alia's visit to Otukpo, the association stressed that expressions of sympathy must be matched with concrete actions to prevent future attacks.

The Idoma Association USA urged President Tinubu to deploy additional security personnel, order comprehensive investigations, establish permanent security outposts, and provide humanitarian aid to affected residents. They also called for the prosecution of those responsible for the violence, expressing hope for the restoration of peace and security in the region.

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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.