In life, we often find ourselves holding onto things that no longer serve us

3 Dec, 2023,

In life, we often find ourselves holding onto things that no longer serve us. Whether it's a toxic relationship, a job that drains our energy, or a dream that no longer aligns with our values, letting go can be one of the most challenging decisions we face. But here's the thing: letting go is not the same as losing it. In fact, it can be the most empowering and liberating choice we make.

When we let go, we create space for something new and better to enter our lives. We release the burden of carrying what no longer brings us joy or fulfillment. We give ourselves permission to grow, evolve, and pursue our true passions. Letting go is an act of self-love and self-respect.

Sometimes, we mistakenly believe that holding onto something is a sign of strength. We fear that letting go means admitting defeat or accepting failure. But the truth is, true strength lies in our ability to recognize when something no longer serves us and to have the courage to release it.

Letting go is not about losing; it's about gaining clarity, freedom, and the opportunity for new beginnings. It's about trusting in the process of life and having faith that what is meant for us will find its way to us. It's about embracing the unknown and being open to the infinite possibilities that lie ahead.

So, if you find yourself hesitant to let go, remember that you are not losing anything. You are simply making room for something better to come into your life. You are choosing growth over stagnation, happiness over misery, and self-love over self-sacrifice.

Letting go is a courageous act that requires strength, resilience, and trust. It may not always be easy, but it is always worth it. So, let go of what no longer serves you, and watch as the universe conspires to bring you the blessings and opportunities you deserve.

Listen again,letting go is not the same as losing it. It is the first step towards finding yourself, your true purpose, and a life filled with joy, abundance, and fulfillment. Embrace the journey of letting go, and you will discover that the best is yet to come.

#getreadyfor2024 #DrMo #raisingconsciousness #impossiblechallenge #TheNigerianDream

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SPEECH BY HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, THE OCH'IDOMA THE 5TH

19 Jan, 2022,

SPEECH BY HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, THE OCH'IDOMA THE 5TH, PASTOR JOHN ELAIGWU ODOGBO ON THE OCCASION OF HIS TAKING OVER CEREMONY FROM THE ACTING OCH'IDOMA HRH GEORGE EDEH ON THE 19TH JANUARY, 2022.

Credit: Wilberforce Ejeh

Protocol........

I want to use this occasion to express my profound appreciation, first of all, to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for making this day a reality. For without Him I would not have become who and what I am today.

2. To the Executive Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, the government and the good people of Benue State, I say a big thank you for providing a conducive environment for the conduct of a free and fair election that led to my emergence as OCH'IDOMA the 5th

3. To the King Makers, I thank you most sincerely for the confidence you reposed in me for such an overwhelming mandate. This indeed is unprecedented, and I do not take it for granted, nor can I thank you enough.

4. To my fellow contestants, I thank you for your magnanimity, even in defeat. I have spoken with you individually after the election and I am thrilled that you are all in high spirit, and desirous as I am of a better, united, and prosperous Idoma Nation.

5. And to all my sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, I thank you for your immense continuous support and solidarity since my election.

I want to assure you that under God Almighty guidance my emergence will Kick starts a new beginning for our people, and the Idoma Kingdom. I am more than ever before committed to supporting those core values and culture that promote our uniqueness and humanity, our unity and industry, and our togetherness and shared common destiny.

6.To our brothers, sisters and neighbors in the Benue State project, it shall be an Era of fruitful and truthful engagement. Together, we shall strive to further those things that deepened and expand the frontier of our shared humanity, brotherliness, and identity.

7. I want to assure you all that by the grace of God, I shall be a father who is accessible to all at all times, and I will be there for you all my subjects.

8. Let me finally state here that election has come and gone and we must in the interest of Idoma Kingdom put everything that transpired behind us and collectively chart the way forward for the development of Idoma Nation. In doing this, we must imbibe the spirit of forgiveness, oneness, love and tolerance.

9. Thank you and God bless you all in Jesus Name

Long live Idoma Kingdom,

Long live Kwararafa Kingdom,

Long live Benue State,

Long live Nigeria

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Otukpo lyrical story

14 Aug, 2021,

Idinka Vs Otokpa: The harden criminals – An Otukpo lyrical story

Long ago before the coming of Ija the personal God’s of Elaigwu the son of Agbooko. The Otukpo people were faced with so many terrors caused by Idinka and Otokpa the crippled thief. Idinka is a giant man feared by many. Some when they saw him stealing from their farm if they are alone pretended not to have seen him to avoid being beating to death. Idinka when going for stealing always goes with his friend Otokpa the cripple. One day Ochumoija the son of Ija who is one of the wife of Agbooko brought in a charm called Uli that served as a judge.

Idinka discovered that if anybody steal or committed an offense such will be placed on oath which will be sworn before Uli. The person will swear that if he or she is the one that committed the said offense Uli should arrest him or her. Idinka thought of this critically as they are now going out of business as a result of the dirty brought in as a the village judge. One day he decided to give it a trial he told Otokpa that they are going to Echeipu farm to steal and he will carry him on a should so that he will be the one to do the stealing. If the community suspect them to be the one and they are brought before Uli he should swear that if he ever step his foot into that farm Uli should arrest him and Idinka now swear that if he ever uses his hand to steal from that farm Uli should arrest him; with this, they always escape Uli’s judgement.

Though Uli have arrest so many thieves and judge thousands of cases including fornication but they community wondered why some stealing are ongoing without the culprit being arrested. These became a thing of worried in the community. Idinka and Otokpa became a real storm in the community.

On one raining day, Idinka and Otokpa were seeing roasting maize and everyone in the community knew both of them heard know maize farm and how could they have gone to the farm inside the rain. The community chiefs gathered and summon them to the panel to explain how they got the maize they are eating. They ask Idinka and Otokpa and they turned looking at each other saying, “it was the gods that gave them the maize they are eating. As they were discussion continued Udenyi walked in with the a complain that he when to check on his farm after the rain he discovered that some of his maize were plug by unknown being.

They brought out Uli the judge deity and Idinka and Otokpa were made to swear before Uli which they make their usual appeal and they won the case once again. But this time around Elaigwu the son of Agbooko grew angry and make a suggestion that they should be taking to the farm to sample evidence. On going to the farm they discovered footprints on the ground.

For fair judgement they decided the entire villagers must test their legs on the footprints after asking Udenyi where he passed to the farm.

They test the footprints one one after the other, unfortunately their legs is of no match. When it get to Idinka turn before he could put his leg on the footprint the evidence was glaring. He sample his foot and it matches and the people shouted “gbangidi bi ikpo Idinka” meaning “exactly like Idinka leg”.

Though Idinka was court and on his confession was punished along with Otokpa but Elaigwu the son of Agbooko was unhappy about the whole case. He see a lacuna on the judgement of Uli and decided to go in search of another deity. He went down to a place called Umu to bring a deity called Ija which became the deity many Idoma were began to serve due to its power. When Elaigwu brought Ija the healer and concessioner he enshrined in it at a place called Ewulo-Ogo now called Akpegede an extract of the Upu of Otukpo.

Credit: Moses Elaigwu

14 Aug, 2021,

HISTORY OF ABACHA AND EKA'TAME

25 Jan, 2021,

Credit: Okwoli Moses Elaigwu

Picture of Eka-tame shown above.

Abacha is a deity that was brought into Otukpicho by Enokela Ijegwa' who saw the need to correct some of the vises in the community as the rate of anomalies increases. This deity served as a judge and seer of the community.

While EKA'TAME was given to Ogah Ochugboju who happened to be the 8th Och'Otukpo in exchange one of his slaves.

It was brought into Otukpicho from Tiv land in exchange of a slave.

EKA'TAME is a protective deity of a clan in Ai'Ogwuche called Ai'Onyum.

EKA'TAME is the same as Eka-Ocheyi in Otukpo kingdom, though brought in for protection by a clan called the Ai'Onyum.

When something bad happens or someone does something wrong, EKA'TAME begins to cry and shed tears inform of blood and can equally speak boldly to people's hearing. It became the source of healing and as it unfolds mystery within and outside the community.

It was examine by some white men from Germany who came into Otukpo and they admired the mystery behind its power. They conspired with seven indigenes who helped them in stealing EKA'TAME in 1977.

Those who work with them in stealing the EKA'TAME died mysteriously after confession.

Petrol to sell for N212.61 per litre in March, says PPPRA

12 Mar, 2021,

Breaking: Petrol to sell for N212.61 per litre in March, says PPPRA ON MARCH

By Michael Eboh

Fuel Price hike: FG reduces price by N5 per litre

The Federal Government has officially confirmed the return of fuel subsidy, as the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, yesterday, fixed the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol, at N212.61 per litre, for the month of March. The new price, according to the PPPRA’s PMS guiding price, released to stakeholders, is supposed to commence from March 1st and run till March 31st, 2021.

However, the fact that the price of the commodity is still been sold at an average of N170 in petrol stations across the country, meant that the Federal Government, through the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC is spending an average of N42 to subsidise a litre of the commodity for Nigerians. The PPPRA confirmed that fuel subsidy actually officially returned in February 2021, as according to the downstream oil sector regulator, the actual pump price of PMS for February was between N183.74 and N186.74 per litre, meaning that the Federal Government paid an average of N16 per litre for PMS in the month. However, in January 2021, the PPPRA disclosed that the price of the commodity was between N163.36 per litre and N166.36 per litre.

According to the PPPRA, based on the average cost for the period, February 1st to 28th 2021, and an average FMDQ Importer and Exporter (I&E) Naira/US Dollar Exchange Rate of N403.80, the expected retail price of PMS for March 2021, stands at N209.61 per litre and N212.61 per litre, being the lower and upper band respectively. Giving a breakdown of the cost elements of the commodity, the PPPRA put the Expected Ex-Coastal price at N175.73 per litre, comprising Average gasoline price (FOB Rotterdam barge), and Average freight rate of N169.22 and N6.51 per litre respectively. It also put the Expected Landing Cost of the commodity at N189.61 per litre, comprising the addition to the ex-coastal price, of average lightering expenses, Nigeria Port Authority Charges, NIMASA charges, jetty throughput charges, storage charge and average financing cost of N4.81, N2.49, N0.23, N1.61, N2.58 and N2.17 per litre, respectively. Furthermore, the addition of the wholesalers margin of N4.03 per litre; administrative charge of N1.23 per litre; transporters’ allowance of N3.89 per litre; bridging fund of N7.51 per litre and Marine Transport Average of N0.15, brings the expected ex-depot price, that is the price at which the commodity is sold to petrol stations, to N206.42 per litre. The PPPRA further stated that the inclusion of retailers’ margin of about N6.19 per litre, would bring the pump price of the commodity, the price at which it is sold to motorists, to N212.61 per litre. Vanguard News Nigeria

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/03/fg-confirms-return-of-subsidy-pppra-puts-fuel-price-at-n212-61/

CONGO WAR

12 Mar, 2021,

Survivors of Congo's hidden war: 'I don't know how to live anymore'

https://www.independent.co.uk/.../congo-war-refugees...

WITHOUT LEGS HE CAN DO WHAT PEOPLE WITH LEGS ARE DOING AND HE IS HAPPY.

12 Mar, 2021,

WITHOUT LEGS HE CAN DO WHAT PEOPLE WITH LEGS ARE DOING AND HE IS HAPPY.

Be happy with your condition

I don't have two legs,

but instead of begging as others do,

I chose to be a farmer,

please show me some Love

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BENIN KINGDOM

12 Mar, 2021,

BENIN KINGDOM

Ovonramwen | king of Benin

Ovonramwen Nogbaisi Ovonramwen, also called Overami, (died January 1914, Calabar, Southern Nigeria [now Nigeria]), West African ruler who was the last independent oba (king) of the 500-year-old kingdom of Benin (in present-day Nigeria). Ovonramwen tried to maintain his independence in the face of increasing British pressure but was able to delay for only a few years the annexation of his kingdom by the colony of Nigeria.

He was called Idugbowa until he took the title Ovonramwen upon becoming oba. He succeeded to a kingdom much reduced by growing British commercial and colonial encroachment from its greatest extent (c. 1700). He attempted to seal Benin off from Europeans but by 1892 was forced to sign a protection treaty with the British administration. Disputes over trade along the Benin River (1892–94) led to a campaign against Benin; the murder of the British acting consul general in January 1897 precipitated a full-scale military expedition, which captured Benin City in February 1897. Ovonramwen surrendered to the British in August and died in exile.He was called Idugbowa until he took the title Ovonramwen upon becoming oba. He succeeded to a kingdom much reduced by growing British commercial and colonial encroachment from its greatest extent (c. 1700). He attempted to seal Benin off from Europeans but by 1892 was forced to sign a protection treaty with the British administration. Disputes over trade along the Benin River (1892–94) led to a campaign against Benin; the murder of the British acting consul general in January 1897 precipitated a full-scale military expedition, which captured Benin City in February 1897. Ovonramwen surrendered to the British in August and died in exile.

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ovonramwen

12 Mar, 2021,

UKUM MEDIA PRACTITIONER'S ASSOCIATION (UMPA) CONDOLES SUSWAM

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May be an image of 2 people and people standing

Ukum Media Practitioners' Association (UMPA) has condoled the family of Suswam Tingir over the gruesome murder of Dr Terkura Suswam, the elder brother of Senator Representing Benue North East Senatorial District, His Excellency Sen. Gabriel Suswam.

The association condemned in totality the horrific attack which led to the killing of the chairman Ashi conglomerate Dr Terkula Suswam.

The association described Late Dr Terkula Suswam as not just philanthropist but also a great entrepreneur who invested so much in both capital and human development whose contribution to the development of Sankera, Benue State and Nigeria shall never be forgotten.

The association is heartbroken because a man who gave his life in pursuit of peace and development of humanity has been murdered.

It prayed to God to give Suswam Tingir family and all that grieved as a result of the gruesome murder of their beloved , father, philantropist and visionery the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

The association said, it will forever remember Late Dr. Suswam by the memories he shared and the things he stood for.

Signed:

Terver Agabih,

President

Timothy Atoza,

General Secretary

Why Ngozi Okonjo Iweala Should Lead the World Trade Organization

12 Mar, 2021,

In the coming weeks, the World Trade Organization faces an historic choice. For the first time in its 25-year history, a woman will be named Director-General. The finalists have been narrowed to two outstanding candidates—Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Nigeria’s former Finance Minister, and Yoo Myung-hee, the current Minister of Trade in South Korea.
Both women are highly accomplished and well equipped to lead the WTO. Minister Yoo has worked in Korean trade circles for decades. She is the first woman to hold her position in a country that has successfully transformed its economy. I am certain that if chosen she would reform and strengthen the 164-member global institution.
But Ms. Okonjo Iweala is more suited to the need of the moment when the global economy faces profound uncertainties. The WTO’s greatest challenge right now is to restore faith in an organization weakened by a power struggle between China and the United States.
Ms. Okonjo Iweala, bringing a fresh perspective that is sorely needed, has the depth of experience and persistence to help both inject new life into the global trading system after its mauling from the COVID-19 pandemic and the multinational credentials to address global divisions in broad and innovative ways.

But the Nigerian-born economist and international development expert who was a former Managing Director of the World Bank, as well as having chaired the board of Gavi, the vaccine alliance has a wider range of contacts and experience that will ensure she can deliver at this crucial time for the international community.
The world is at an inflection point, with free and fair trade near the top of the list. Trade wars have returned, trading blocs have weakened, and the multilateral approach to addressing trade issues and disputes has waned. Plus, the COVID-19 pandemic has closed borders, upended supply chains, and dragged down the world economy at the same time as global warming is taking its toll on society and infrastructure.
A revival of world trade is one of the most important pillars for accelerated growth and sustainable development. This is true for everyone but especially true in Africa. Given that almost 1 in 4 of the world’s people will be African by 2050, strong and diversified African markets will therefore contribute to strong global markets. Trade is critical.
Ms. Okonjo Iweala combines both an international and an African perspective that will suit these times of extreme stress and inject a new dynamism to help revive the global economy.

Nearly all African countries are still dependent on exports of commodities and extractives, mostly unprocessed. Africa’s economic future will depend upon modernizing those sectors and finding fair global markets to sell high-quality processed foods, fertilizers, and petroleum products.

The African Continental Free Trade Area—delayed due to COVID-19 but still on track to come into effect in 2021—will address Africa’s fragmentation by creating the world’s largest common market. According to World Bank estimates, the trade pact could boost regional income by $450 billion and lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty by 2035.

But internal commerce alone, no matter how large, will not be enough to carry African economies into sustainable middle-income status. That will require extensive global investment and trade.

A broader imperative also exists for fostering a prosperous Africa fully engaged in global trade: it is vital to the world’s future peace and prosperity.

Due to its large youth population, Africa needs to generate 20 million jobs per annum over the next 20 years. Some of this job growth will come from services, but the bulk will come from commercialization of agriculture and expanded manufacturing. Those products will seek global markets. If those markets are not fair and transparent, and those 20 million jobs are not created, Africa will not break free of cycles of poverty, migration, and conflict—which will continue to have global consequences in terms of a growing refugee crisis and escalating damage to Africa’s environment.

I’ve known Ms. Okonjo Iweala for many years and can vouch for her tenacity, savvy, and commitment to forging consensus.

Building on her unique African cultural perspective and deep understanding of the international community, I believe Ms. Okonjo Iweala will reinforce the case for the value of the open trade system supported by the WTO’s multilateral role and methodology for dispute solving. This is in everyone’s interest.

Combining her skills as an international civil servant and a national minister of finance minister, along with her roles in private enterprise, civil society, and in addressing health issues and climate change, she will bring an inclusive, problem-solving approach that can help revive world trade at this crucial juncture.

By: K.Y. Amoako

https://acetforafrica.org/

EFCC Arrests 19 Yahoo Boys In Abuja, Abeokuta And Ibadan

12 Mar, 2021,

EFCC Bursts a Syndicate of 13 Cybercrime Suspects in Abuja

Luck ran out on a syndicate of 13 cybercrime suspects on Thursday March 11, when operatives of the Abuja Zonal Office of the EFCC raided their hideouts and apprehended them.

Five of the suspects were picked up at an N8m a year apartment in Gilmore Estate, Jahi, while the other eight were arrested at Katampe Extension, all in Abuja.

The breakthrough followed actionable intelligence on their alleged criminal enterprise.

Incriminating items recovered from them include iPhones, laptops, gaming consoles, 1 Toyota Avalon and a Lexus SUV.

The suspects have given valuable information and will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal Office, on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, secured the conviction of six internet fraudsters in Abeokuta, Ogun state and Ibadan, Oyo state.

Justice Mohammed Abubakar of the Federal High Court sitting in Abeokuta convicted Balogun Mojeed, Adeyemo Adeyinka Samuel, Mojeed Tajudeen Oluwafemi, Babatunde Damilare Odetunde and Opeyemi Jamiu…

…after finding them guilty of separate amended one count charge bordering on impersonation contrary to Section 22 (20) (b) (i) and punishable under Section 22(2) (b) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015.

While Balogun Mojeed and Adeyemo Adeyinka Samuel were sentenced to two months in prison; Mojeed Tajudeen Oluwafemi and Babatunde Damilare Odetunde bagged three months imprisonment, and Opeyemi Jamiu, four months.

The Court also ordered them to make restitution to their victims and forfeit items recovered from them in the course of the investigation to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Source: https://mobile.twitter.com/officialEFCC/status/1370009522589286418

SIX INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE IDOMA PEOPLE

12 Mar, 2021,

SIX INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE IDOMA PEOPLE

The Idoma culture is perhaps one of the most fascinating cultures in Nigeria. Exceptionally proud of their native heritage, the Idoma people have preserved many of their ancestors’ traditions, a number of them present in their mixture of elaborate traditional tales, artistic expressions, music and varied culture elements.

Like any other society, Idoma people reveal their customs, traditions, beliefs, norms and lifestyle through the distinctive behavioral traits. Jumia Travel, Africa’s No. 1 online hotel booking site presents 5 of these notably peculiar facts that have now marked out the Idoma among other ethnic groups in the country.

1) The Idoma people are not only found in Benue state

The popular idea is that the Idoma are an ethno-linguistic group primarily found in the western areas of Benue State, Nigeria. This is because they are the second largest group in the state and occupy 9 local government areas (L.G.A.’s) which include: Ado, Agatu, Apa, Obi,Ohimini, Ogbadibo, Oju, Okpokwu & Otukpo .

Aside from the western parts of Benue, the Idoma tribe have sparse settlements in other parts of the country, including Nassarawa and Cross Rivers States.

2) The men are obliged by tradition to pound yam for their wives

Unlike other cultures where the woman is expected to perform all culinary chores, the Idoma men are not always exempted.

The traditional head of Otukpo, Och’Otukpo John Eimonye, stated in an interview with Daily Trust Newspaper that the job of pounding yam is one of the expectations of the Idoma men and serves as a masculine chore when considered from hygienic, social and cultural viewpoints. This interesting detail thrills not just outsiders who learn of it but the indigenes who practice it as well.

3) The people strongly believe in the ‘Alekwu spirit’

With the advent of Christianity and other foreign religions, the traditional belief systems of most ethnic groups in the country has been influenced by western practices.

However, a majority of the Idoma people still believe strongly in the Alekwu , which is seen as a link between the living and the dead. They host an annual ‘Aje Alekwu’ festival where traditional religious practitioners commune and make sacrifices in worship of their ancestors across the land.

The Idomas have strong attachment to the worship of Alekwu-spirit of the ancestors which is believed to stand as an invisible watchdog of the family and communities while checkmating vices like adultery, theft and murder.

4) The groom and the rooster

While the marriage rites and customs of the Idoma people is not unlike that of the Ibos and some other south-eastern cultures, there are specific aspects that clearly distinguish their tradition.

One of those specific aspects is the fact that the groom and his family have to present the bride with a rooster and some money on the marriage day after the dowry has already been paid. If she accepts, it is a sign of approval and disinterest if she reject the gift. While there are no certain reasons to justify the need for a rooster, it remains an interesting part of the ceremony.

5) Language Diversity

Classified as a minority ethnic group and often mistaken to be part of the Igbo tribe, the Idoma people are known for one language – Idoma, which is classified in the Akweya subgroup of the Idomoid languages of the Volta–Niger family.

With a population estimated to be about 3.5 million, varied dialects have over time emerged from the umbrella of this mother-tongue and they include ‘Western Idoma’ chiefly spoken by the Okpokwu and Ogbadibo local government areas; ‘Central Idoma’ spoken by Otukpo and Ohimini people; ‘Southern Idoma’ largely spoken by Ado communities and ‘Northern Idoma’ spoken by the Agatu & Apa regions.

6) The Okoho Soup

The Idoma people are known for their love of food, as there is an annual food festival in Benue State to celebrate women and the various traditional cuisines.

Most popular among their delicacies is the Okoho soup which is made with the peculiar Okoho plant, bush meat and many other ingredients.

source: #MY IDOMA, MY CULTURE# #PROUDLY IDOMA# #FULL BLOODED IDOMA (FBI)

Reconstruction of Och’Idoma palace

12 Mar, 2021,

1. Benue State government set to commence reconstruction of Och’Idoma palace as the Idoma area traditional council approves architectural design

2. Wife the state governor task creative writers to pay greater attention to children’s literature

3. Community leaders and herdsmen in Ado Local Government agree on peaceful coexistence in the area

4. National assembly to expunge provisions in the police act which infringe on rights of women

Constructions of Och’Idoma Palace

The Idoma area traditional council Wednesday approved the architectural design for reconstruction and renovation of the Och’Idoma palace in Otukpo local government.

The council led by Och’Idoma Ogaba Idu Elias Obekpa gave the approval when state deputy governor Engr. Benson Abounu led other government officials to the palace for input on the final architectural design.

Engr. Abounu said the approval for the design was delayed since the Och’Idoma was indisposed during an earlier visit to seek his input and stated that the initial design was done in 2018.

He added that the design which was modified to reflect the present realities has several features that benefit the status of paramount ruler of the Idoma nation and the reconstruction was to commerce immediately.

Also speaking, the contractor and managing director of Intra Engineering Tucking Ltd, Engr. Agaba Ikwe explained that the edifice will contain the main palace, administrative building, services quarters and clinic with facilities such as gym, library and a museum.

Commenting, the Och’Idoma Ogaba Idu Obekpa thanked the Ortom administration for the project which he said was heartwarming and praised the deputy governor for his interest in execution of the job with assurance of support from the Idoma area traditional council towards the construction when the work begins.

It was reported that the deputy governor after the visit received at his Otukpo residence a textile designer Mr. Justine Onehi who got national attention for bean cake business popularly known as “AKara” after granting interview to foreign organization which was aired on national television. Engr. Abounu encouraged and rewarded Mr. Onehi for his perseverance in the face of adversity.

Responding, the textile designer thanked the deputy governor for the gesture which he said will spur him to improve on the Akara business.

Dr. Eunice Ortom calls for greater attention to children’s literature

Wife of the state governor Dr. Eunice Ortom has charged writers to devote greater attention to children literature that could help them grow into patriotic, useful member of the society. Mrs. Ortom gave the charge Wednesday at the NUJ house Makurdi during the public presentation and launch of the book “The Holiday Camp” written by the state chairman of the association of the Nigerian author ANA Mr. Paul Oga, enjoined author to encourage positive societal values in their works.

Represented by the coordinator of her pet project Eunice spring of life foundation Mr. Tine Agenu, the state first lady promised that the foundation would continue to support projects that would attract positive development to the people of the state. She describe Mr. Oga as an author dedicated to development of the society especially through his work on children literature and commended him for his efforts.

Also speaking, chairman of the association Major Emmanuel Agaku represented by Terfa Tsetim said the author who was his classmate in secondary school had always proven to be exceptional in whatever he did adding that the book reflected some of their experience in school.

On their part, the chairlady and general manager of harvest FM Mrs. Christine Okpachu represented by head of news Emmanuel Gwaza, the vice chairlady and permanent secretary Ministry of works Mrs. Margaret Ikpe described the author as a passionate lover of children’s literature and expressed hope that the book would go a long way in helping many lives while Bishop Uba Udenyi and Right Reverend Peter Ikwulono represented by Very Rev. Philip Edeh expressed confidence in the writer’s ability to reshape the society in line with the values of the people.

Also speaking, director news and current affairs Radio Benue Igba Ogbole, director programs and legal adviser of ANA Mrs. Onyanyi Ulegede, former state chairmen of ANA Elvis Ogenyi and Sam Ogaba Idu as well as the president of Opiatoha K’Idoma chief Elaigwu Abutu acknowledged the author’s passion for mentoring writers and urged him not to relent.

Speaking on behalf of ANA Benue, the vice chairman of the association Mrs. Regina Achienege who reviewed the book, also praised the author for never relenting in ensuring that children were not left out of every reading campaign and expressed confidence that under his leadership, the literary body would continue to make meaningful progress.

Ado local government: community leaders and herdsmen agree peaceful coexistence

Leaders, other stakeholders and herdsmen in Ado local government have agreed to terms that would enhance peaceful coexistence and checks security concerns in the area.

The agreement was reached Wednesday at a critical stakeholder’s meeting held in the wake of protest in Ukwonyo district of the local government by the Ado indigenous women over their suffering from criminal activities such as rape, unprovoked attacks and kidnapping making it difficult for them to attend to their farms and meet the daily needs of their families.

The women ended the protest following the intervention of the chairman of the council, James Oche who promised to convey a meeting to address their grievances. Addressing the meeting, Mr. Oche expressed appreciation to the women for their understanding and the stakeholders for attending the meeting and making conscious efforts towards ending the lingering problem permanently.

In separate remarks, the state secretary of Myeti Allah cattle breeders association Jerry Adamu and the leader of Ado herdsmen Alhaji Ibro said the concern of the women were real and promised to cooperate with the leadership of the local government to ensure peace.

The duo noted that some of the security challenges were instigated by outsiders to create discord between the herdsmen and their host community. He promised to personally move against any such person including even his members who would want to create problem for them.

The meeting agreed that open grazing prohibition and ranching establishment law of the state, would continue to be respected and that all herdsmen and members of their families within the area must be known and register with the ward heads in addiction, the meeting resolved that anyone who cause destruction or engage in criminality or any act capable of threatening the peace and security of the area, would be held responsible.

National assembly to expunge provision in the police act that infringe on rights of women

The national assembly has expressed its readiness to amend the constitution to ensure gender party and enact laws to improve fortunes of women girls in Nigeria. This was just as the senator resolved to expunge provisions of the law as contained in the police ALF federal character law electoral act, law act and political constitutions which infringed on the rights of women in Nigeria.

The decision was conveyed amidst resolution reached on Wednesday during plenary when the upper chamber considered the motion on the 2021 international women’s day celebration with the theme: Women in the leadership and equal feature in Covid-19 world.

The motion was sponsored by Senator Betty Opiafi of rivers west and co-sponsored by Senator Aisha Ahmed Adamawa central, Oluyemi Tinubu Lagos Central, Biodu Olujeri Ekiti South, Okum Iyiake Akwa Ibom South among others.

by: Emmanuel Echo

HRH, Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, Och’Idoma IV-the Paramount Head

12 Mar, 2021,

HRH, Agabaidu Elias Obekpa – Och'Idoma IV | IdomaLand

The leader of Idoma people is the Och’Idoma and he is resident in the Och’Idoma Palace in Otukpo. The current traditional ruler is HRH, Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, Och’Idoma IV. Past Och’Idomas are HRH, Agabaidu Edwin Ogbu – Och’ Idoma III, HRH, Agabaidu Ajene Okpabi – Och’ Idoma II, & HRH Agabaidu Ogiri Oko – Och’ Idoma I.

The Idoma are people that primarily inhabit the lower western areas of Benue State, Nigeria, and kindred groups can be found in Cross Rivers State, Enugu State and Nasarawa State in Nigeria.^[1] The Idoma language is classified in the Akweya subgroup of the Idomoid languages of the Volta–Niger family, which include Alago, Agatu, Etulo and Yala languages of Benue, Nasarawa and Northern Cross river states. . The Akweya subgroup is closely related to the Yatye-Akpa sub-group. The bulk of the territory is inland, south of river Benue, some seventy-two kilometers east of its confluence with river Niger. The Idomas are known to be ‘warriors’ and ‘hunters’ of class, but hospitable and peace-loving. The greater part of Idoma land remained largely unknown to the West until the 1920s, leaving much of the colorful traditional culture of the Idoma intact. The population of the Idoma is estimated to be about 4 million. The Idoma people have a traditional ruler called the Och’Idoma who is the head of the Idoma Area Traditional Council while each community has its own traditional chief such as the Ad’Ogbadibo of Orokam, Chief D.E Enenche. The Palace of the overall Och’Idoma is located at Otukpo, Benue State. The present Och’Idoma, Elias Ikoyi Obekpa was installed into office in 1997 and the position is for life

The history of the Idoma people precedes the history of Benue State (created 1976) and the history of the Republic of Nigeria (created 1960). Oral tradition and dance is the primary method through which history has been passed in Idoma land and is considered a central cultural institution. From a young age Idoma children usually learn from their elders stories of old and are brought up around extended families, which make multiple historical resources available. When Idoma prompted generally will proudly tell you where they are from, and it’s not uncommon for Idoma to be able to recite at least four generations of their progenitors. Historically, being unable to answer the emblematic question “Who is your father?” disqualified one from important roles and titles in Idoma land. Quite naturally, a number of villages trace origins to single ancestors and further, several Idoma groups trace their heritage to one common ancestor, considered the “father” of the different groups. According to traditional history, Iduh, the father of the Idoma had several children who each established different areas. Hence the expression: “Iduh the father of Idoma.” “Iduh the father of Idoma Iduh who begot all the Idoma He also begot the following children: Ananawoogeno who begot the children of Igwumale; Olinaogwu who begot the people of Ugboju; Idum who begot the people of Adoka; Agabi who begot the people of Otukpo; Eje who begot the people of Oglewu; Ebeibi who begot the people of Umogidi in Adoka, Edeh who begot the people of Edumoga and Ode who begot the people of Yala ” While there may be some truth to the above, the Idoma cannot be said to have a unitary origin. Many Idoma groups and village subsets have their own histories complete with stories about how their people arrived at their current location. The Otukpa people descended from three ancestors: Owuno, Ameh-Ochagbaha and Oodo. The first two were brothers who migrated from Idah in Igalaland while Oodo migrated from Igbo land. As one can imagine, the ever-changing of people through time makes it difficult to study Idoma history

Scholarly history

Scholars have combined oral history with genealogical data and analysis of kinship totems to trace the roots of the Idoma people as a whole. One notable Idoma scholar E.O. Erim cites genealogical data, collected from most modern groups in Idoma suggesting that they derive from several ethnic groups, each with different historical origin. Furthermore, the available genealogies indicate the existence of diverse ethnic groups who descended from ancestors other than Idu. In several of these cases, the claim of common descent is backed by both extensive genealogical connections and possession of common kinship totems. Erim contends that while Idu was certainly a migration leader—he was not the “father” of the Idoma in the sense implied in the above traditions. These two considerations make it difficult to simply accept the view that every group in Idomaland is descended from Idu.

Many Idoma kindred claim an ancestral homeland called Apa, north-east of present-day Idomaland due to pressures of Northern invaders as recently as 300 years ago. The historical Apa was part of the ancient Kwararafa Kingdom (Okolofa Kingdom), a confederacy of several peoples. Informants in other ethnic groups have corroborated existence of this kingdom, chiefly the Jukun who also believe they once ruled a confederacy called Kwararafa. In the Hausa book Kano Chronicle it is mentioned that Zaria, under Queen Amina conquered all towns as far as Kwarafara in the 15th century. At present, there is a Local Government Area in Benue State called Apa and is said to be the home of those who made the first migration from the historical kingdom. For many Idoma nationalists today, the name Apa elicits sentiments of a past glory, and some in the political sphere have gone as far as suggesting it should become the name of a new Idoma state.

Other scholars point to historical and linguistic evidence that suggests that Idoma have ties with the Igala people to the west, concluding that the two nations came from a common ancestor. Angulu(1981) note that Igala and Igbo have important historical, ancestral and cultural relationships. Eri is said to be the original legendary cultural head of the Umu-eri, a subgroup of the Igbo people. Eri migrated from the Igala area and established a community in the middle of Anambra river valley (at Eri-aka) in Aguleri where he married two wives. The first wife, Nneamakụ, bore him five children. The first was Agulu, the founder of Aguleri (The ancestral head of Eri Kingdom clans) (the Ezeora dynasty that has produced 34 kings till date in Enugwu Aguleri), the second was Menri, the founder of Umunri / Kingdom of Nri, followed by Onugu, the founder of Igbariam and Ogbodulu, the founder of Amanuke. The fifth one was a daughter called Iguedo, who is said to have borne the founders of Nteje, and Awkuzu, Ogbunike, Umuleri, Nando and Ogboli in Onitsha. As one of the children of Eri, Menri migrated from Aguleri, which was and still is, the ancestral temple of the entire Umu-Eri (Umu-Eri and Umu-Nri). His second wife Oboli begot Ọnọja, the only son who founded the Igala Kingdom in Kogi State.^[2] Among this group, there are those who believe both ethnic groups fled the same kingdom at some point in history. Many traditional Idoma spiritual chants and “secret” tongues spoken during traditional ceremonies are actually Igala dialects and there are some Idoma themselves who assert their Igala ancestry. There are yet other Idoma groups notably in the southern regions, which claim their ancestors arrived at their present location from Northern fringes of Igboland as a result of land disputes. Scholars believe these people had most likely fled Apa too, settled and resettled.

As suggested, a number of factors make it difficult to study Idoma historical origins of the Idoma people as a whole. In any event, it could be said that despite their heterogeneous origins, trading, marriage, language and other interactions among the Idoma have cultivated traditions and shaped a rich cultural identity distinctly their own.

https://jojuli.com/the-office-of-ochidoma-agabaidu/

I LOVE AFRICA

11 Mar, 2021,

May be an image of Ogwuche Joe, hair and outerwear

I LOVE AFRICA

The black world is my lover,

Against all odds she's my cover

Mountains we may climb in line

For our strength to lead and shine

She is my suffering pretty lover

The one born from same mother

I am the black lover as a ladder

You need to move really higher

Walls of our calls stand tall

Guts from our hearts is so raw

Our show is the flow of growth

Altered by the greed of goats

They live so bad like animal

I wonder at such human caliber

I am the African lover

To lift her from the gutter

Man black echoes a song,

For the pretty home we belong

Man black is me and you

Treading under the black boo

I am not for us a president

But I lead for you in my resident

I am not for us a man with guns

Yet I hope for youth not to run

I am not alone for the show

We are many for us to grow

We will take the mantle

It is ours to handle

We will love us for all,

To respond to the call..

I am not for you to shoot

I am not for you to loot

I am the saviour from our root

It is time to change our roof

It is so so bad and old

We need us that are bold

I am in love with Nigeria

To lead the fight in my area

I will bleed to lead indeed

And I know I will win for me

And for the nation of Him

Arise young hearts and minds

To become the sons so kind

Our fight is here

For our hearts to dare..

OGWUCHE A JOSEPH 2020

(My Black Poetry Update)

Benue 2023: Why we want power to shift to South

10 Mar, 2021,

Benue 2023: Why we want power to shift to South – Senator Abba Moro

May be an image of 1 person

Former Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, is the Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District in the upper legislative chamber. A grassroots politician and former local government chairman, Moro has been a strong voice for the people of Benue South since he became their representative in the Senate in June 2019.

He is currently, leading a strong campaign and agitation for power to shift to Benue South popularly known as Zone C in 2023.

In this interview with some selected journalists, the lawmaker made a startling revelation that after 45 years of Benue State creation, Zone C has always been politically schemed out from taking the number one seat despite very competent personalities that abound.

Moro said that now is the time for the other two zones ( A and B) that have been governing Benue to allow a candidate of Benue South extraction to be governor.

He also spoke on the nation’s security challenges, among other issues. Excerpt:

You are one of those in the frontline advocating for power to shift to Benue South (Zone C) in 2023 which is believed not to have been given the opportunity to hold sway as far as the governance of Benue State is concerned since the creation of the state. How has the agitation been?

Well, so far, so good, we are moving in the right direction. We have requested support for power to shift to Zone C of Benue State popularly known as Benue South this time around. And as you rightly pointed out I fired the first shot at the state congress of the PDP in 2020. I pleaded with our brothers and sisters in Zones A and B to support a candidate of Benue South extraction. It resonated with some people. It didn’t resonate with some people. And it is in tandem with my promise to my people, the electorate, when I was campaigning to become their senator that I was going to be their spokesperson; that I was going to be their messenger. And that I was going to advocate for them; that I was going to push their aspirations and expectations in the National Assembly and in Nigeria. And so, I will continue to do that. Part of the fallout of the agitation is the springing up of various platforms – Benue South for Governor, Benue Rebirth Movement, Benue South Caucus, Benue South Elders. Many of them like that are advocating for power shift and quite frankly some of them have even led movements to communities and individuals that are critical stakeholders in Benue politics. And personally too, I have gone round some critical stakeholders advocating for power shift, not necessarily a power shift to Abba Moro. No! That is not what I am asking for. I am speaking for my people. I am speaking for the people that I represent in the National Assembly. And I have convinced myself that this is the right time for Benue people to support somebody from Zone C to become the governor against the backdrop of the fact that since the creation of Benue State no person from that side had become governor. And apparently all the kindred houses in the Tiv-speaking area in Zones A and B have become governor. One person in each of the kindred – five of them – has become governor. So, in 2023 we expect that if we believe sincerely in the corporate existence of Benue State somebody from Benue South should be supported to become governor. We are not all made up of mediocre. We have meritable, very competent individuals. We have people who have the intelligence, the educational qualification, the acumen, all the qualities that a governor should possess. Therefore, this time around we are insisting that we should be supported. And I am saying personally that this time around we must talk. The people of Benue must talk. We must debate. We must negotiate. And if somebody from Benue South is not going to be governor, I will insist that our brothers should give us reasons, because we are part and parcel of Benue State. We have been supporting our brothers from Zones A and B to become governors without questions. In the last election, for instance, nobody from Benue South contested against the governor for his second term. And so, I think that the message is sinking. The advocacy is becoming more intense and aggressive because the awareness is there already that this is the time – like an idea whose time has come. I will continue to talk to our brothers and sisters and other stakeholders too will continue to talk. And at the end of the day, we expect that the people of Benue will see reasons to support Zone C.

So far what level of response are you getting from the people of the other two senatorial districts – the zones you are pleading with to allow Benue South produce the next governor of the state?

Frankly, and to be fair to them, a sizeable number of persons in Zones A and B agreed that this is the time to shift power to Benue South. Even within Zones A and B, there are advocacy groups now that are springing up – the Benue Patriot, for instance. The Benue Patriot is made up essentially of very prominent Benue sons and daughters – former House of Reps members, former House of Assembly members, former Commissioners, former advisers, former special assistants to the government of Benue State – all of them are there from across the three zones of Benue. That is to tell you the level of acceptance or resonation that has taken place since the advocacy started. So, this is a Benue project. It is not just about Zone C. Power shift to Zone C, Benue South is now a Benue project embraced by a sizeable number of Benue citizens. Even current members of the National Assembly, the majority of them are in agreement in principle that this is the right thing to do in 2023. And in the Benue State House of Assembly you can find a sizeable number of them. Therefore, I think that the agitation for power shift to Benue South is on course. And as the senator representing the Benue South people, I am at the forefront.

Benue State has been in existence for over 45 years. What could have been responsible for the marginalization, the inability of Benue South to produce a governor all these years? Could it be based on the mathematics of numbers that these other two zones have been having the grip of power over the Benue South zone?

In politics and in a democracy we call it the tyranny of the majority. Elections are about numbers. As I speak to you Zones A and B made up essentially of the Tiv-speaking people constitute about 70-80 per cent of the voting population of Benue State. And so for as long as they decide to continue to support one of their own for that long they can continue to be governor. As a matter of fact, as I am speaking to you, they can afford to be the governorship candidate and the deputy governorship candidate and still win the election. That is the truth about it and politics and democracy in Benue State and Nigeria. So, I actually ordinarily will not subscribe to the theory of marginalization. It is all about democracy and the game of numbers. The majority always carries the votes. And so, I think that is what is playing out, the dynamics of politics in Benue State. But Benue people are people of conscience. In the past, because elections are about numbers and the Zones A and B have the numbers to always win elections, one Chief Godwin Dabor of blessed memory had postulated that a person or persons of the Benue South Senatorial District will only be supported to become governor after the five kindred houses, royal houses, ruling houses of the Tiv-speaking area become governor. And like I said in my first advocacy, at that time some of us felt it was an eternity. Some of us felt that it was too long away. And that it was never going to come. But it has come. A current governor of Benue State, Governor Samuel Ortom is from the last ruling house of the Tiv-speaking people to become governor. And that is why we find it auspicious at this time to ask to be supported to become governor. Because the five houses that have been the basis for not supporting a person from Benue South has produced a governor. And so, we are saying that we can as well become the sixth ruling house in Benue and be supported to become governor. That is exactly what we are asking for and I think we have every justification. We have every reason to demand that and we expect that our brothers and sisters in the Tiv-speaking area will this time around understand with us and support somebody from Benue South to become governor.

What strategic approach are you applying in this agitation so as to get the desired result?

Well, let me say that Chameleon says that what he uses to survive to live his life is a mistake and is in his mind. At this point in time, I will wish that I remain silent on our strategic approach towards ensuring that we achieve the desired result. We will continue the advocacy. We will continue the contact arrangement approach. We will continue to rely on the appeal approach for now. But I can assure you that now more than ever before a person from the Benue South Senatorial District is determined to ensure that fairness, justice, and equity play out in 2023. But, of course, we’re putting together a strategic committee that will work out the final onslaught in our advocacy for producing the next governor of Benue State.

Though there is no constitutional provision for power rotation, some states have been able to reach a kind of logical understanding that allows power to rotate among the three senatorial districts in the state to entrench peace. Why was it difficult for such an understanding to have been reached in your state?

The reality of it is that all of us have different approaches to life. In some states like you have said, minorities have produced governors for the states. But that is not the case for Benue. And it is because it is not the case that we are now advocating formally. Otherwise, ordinarily, it’s part of the dynamics of politics for stakeholders to work out the arrangements for producing the best from all the sectors and sections of the state. But let me hasten to state here that it has dawned on us that framers of the 1999 constitution as amended didn’t take into cognizance the possibility of the tyranny of the majority in our present democracy. And that is why even though the PDP, for instance, advocates for zoning in terms of its elective and appointive positions, it was not entrenched in the constitution.

So what are you doing as a lawmaker in the highest legislative body for power rotation to be embedded in Nigeria’s constitution?

Yes, it is part of the proposals that have been made to the constitution review committee and we are following it up, especially those of us from the minority communities in Nigeria. And, of course, there is also a proposal for independent candidacy. I don’t know how far that can go. But the reality is that there are people of minority status in their various states that are popular enough to be able to garner support from all the sectors of the states to become governors of their states. And so if you provide for an independent platform that is unattached to any political party, those with such muscle to come out as an independent candidates, will be supported by people who are also concerned about the political survival and development of the state. Thus, I think that either way – by power rotation or by independent candidacy, if not now later somebody from the Benue South Senatorial District can become governor.

There are those who have argued against power rotation, insisting that what should be paramount is getting a citizen of the state that can govern the state and give the people true dividends of democracy regardless of his zone. Don’t you think they are making good sense in their argument?

Yes, of course, they made a lot of sense. But power rotation is not an invitation to mediocrity. Power rotation is not an insistence on getting anyhow person to become governor of a state. For the Benue South Senatorial District, for instance, and our advocacy we are saying that in the over one million people or so in the Benue South Senatorial District, we have an abundance of people that have the requisite qualifications to govern and develop Benue State. That is what we are saying. On the balance of all permutation, we also insist that from wherever the governorship candidate is emerging he should be somebody who can govern the state with the fear of God in his heart and concern for the generality of the people of Benue State. And furthermore, we are much more concerned about the development of Benue State. Benue State is just one out of the 36 states in Nigeria. And definitely, there should be some level of competition of ideas among the states and we should get people who are concerned about properly situating Benue State such that our state should occupy its rightful place in the politics of Nigeria. Benue State is regarded generally as the food basket of Nigeria. So, if that is what we are best at doing, then, let’s aspire to feed Nigeria and the world. And only good governance can produce that.

Are you also looking at the option of state creation, that is, demanding the carving out of Benue South to stand as a state on its own? Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, your predecessor, made a lot of efforts in that area?

Certainly, and we are making much more efforts. Don’t forget that I told you in the beginning that I was going to continue from where the former Senate President, Distinguished Senator David Mark stopped. That is exactly what we are doing. The agitation for the creation of Apa State is still on the front burner of national discourse. And as I am talking to you it is one of the proposals before the constitutional review conference – the creation of Apa State. Not necessarily because of our experience in Benue State, but because of the reason of self-determination – that a community of people wants to take their own destinies in their hands. So, I can assure you that at every turn of events, until we realize our dream for Apa State, the agitation will continue. And I hope that one day we will achieve our dream of having our state.

In Benue South, though the Idomas are the majority, we also have the Igedes, what is the level of cooperation between the Idomas and Igedes in terms of having a common front in this battle?

Well, it is just a matter of semantics when it comes to issues of differences. Of course, the Igedes are a distinct community in the Idoma nation – just like the Akweyas of Otukpo Local Government and the Uffia in Ado Local Government. They are a distinct community. But we are all Idomas. Of course, modernity has thrown up some spanners in the cordial relationship and existence of the Idoma people such that the Igedes or some Igedes think that they are distinct and they are not Idomas. Very unfortunate indeed because the irony of it is that for over 30 years an Igede person, Ajene Okpabi, was the paramount ruler of the Idoma nation. And so we cannot wake up and rewrite history that we are not one. However, in this drive towards achieving the common purpose of producing the governor of Benue State, we are one. And we have advised ourselves to de-emphasize those things that divide us and emphasize only those things that unite us. And that is the message to the people of Benue State at this critical moment, at this defining moment of our life. We must agree to only emphasize those things that unite us as a people because it is not by accident that God has put us together as one people in one state. Therefore, we must do God’s bidding by accepting to live together, to work together for the common good of our people.

There are indications that by virtue of your leading role in the current struggle for power shift to Benue South, some persons are pressurizing you to join the race for the governorship seat in 2023, if eventually Zone C is given the chance to produce the governor, are you going to yield to such pressure?

I am a politician and in politics anything is possible. But quite frankly at this moment, I am a senator representing the good people of Benue South Senatorial District. I have not spent up to two years yet. I am privileged to be in the custody of the collective mandate for the people of the Benue South Senatorial District to be their senator. And so, all my advocacy of power shift is essentially in tandem with my mandate to speak for the people, to espouse their collective expectations and aspirations. That is exactly what I am doing right now. If it becomes necessary that I contest to become governor, I should be able to at that time tell my people when and if I am contesting to become governor. But right now, I am the senator representing the people and I speak for the people. For now, who should become the governor shouldn’t be on the front burner. What should be on the front burner should be the advocacy and agitation for power to shift to Benue South Senatorial District. And I know that when the time comes there are many, many qualified citizens of Benue South that can become governor and perform very well for Benue State.

http://observerstimes.com/benue-2023-why-we-want-power.../

ECHIJA CULTURAL FESTIVAL

10 Mar, 2021,

THE YOUNG VISIONARY MAN BEHIND ''ECHIJA CULTURAL FESTIVAL'' IN OTUKPO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE

May be an image of Amedu Iklaga

AMEDU IKLAGA

Amedu Iklaga is an Idoma born fine artist who hails from Otukpoicho in Otukpo LGA of Benue state. He has been into active art work and marketing for over a decade through his art studio "DA VINCI'S ABODE", in the Nigerian capital city of Abuja. Amedu Iklaga is the initiator and convener of the famous ECHIJA CARNIVAL, a social cultural festival dedicated to the celebration of Idoma cultural heritage. The annual event which holds every December has become the rallying point of all holiday makers in Otukpo and Idoma land as a whole. Apart from the entertainment platform presented by Echija, it has become the launching pad for many upcoming and intending artists, as well as a marketing front for various SMEs. Gradually, it has metamorphosed into a melting pot where businesses converge, not just for the locals but Echija is carving new frontiers for partnership, sponsorship and brand marketing which seeks to open up new channels of trade and investments. As it is today, Echija is beyond a mere celebration of culture, masquerades and dance troupes. Amedu Iklaga is gradually positioning the festival to become a major player in the global tourism industry which has its attendant opportunities in the hospitality and related industries. Echija is completely non-political and has no affiliations whatsoever to any interest in religion. It provides other affiliate platforms for showcasing the rich agricultural prowess of the Idoma nation. This side attraction captioned OGEJI FARMING COMPETITION is a fertile investment ground for agro-allied business.The STREET PAINTING AND DEMONSTRATION CLASSES which are preparatory to the main event has greatly added to the aestheticaesthetics of Otukpo and can be regarded as the artistic voice of Echija. Collectively, these will in no little way boost Internally Generated Revenue(IGR) and increase Gross Domestic Product (GDP).Simply put, Amedu Iklaga, through Echija Cultural Festival, has opened up Otukpo for business!

Ech’Ija Cultural Festival

What is Echi’Ija?

In direct translation from Idoma to English, Ech’Ija means, “The Day of Play”. This is not that far-fetched from what this movement is about.

Ech’Ija Cultural Festival is a coming together of Idoma people (and other tribes living within the land) to celebrate our common heritage in Idomaland through our masquerades (traditional and urban), dance, plays and all form of entertainment that we have evolved and created over the decades.

There are other cultural fiestas in our land but Ech’Ija is unique because of its inclusiveness of all the other tribes that live and share our commonwealth with us in our land. In 2019, we saw masquerades and dance performances by our people and from other cultures and this will continue this year as well.

Why Ech’Ija?

Ech’Ija is a child of multiple meetings, designs and conceptions that began since 2005. It was finally unleashed to a glorious reception in Otukpo in 2019 and the rest is history.

Ech’Ija cultural festival is an opportunity for all Idoma people and those living within our land to celebrate our cultural heritage, our commonwealth as people who have drank the “enyi’ and ate the “ona” of the land. Ech’Ija began as an Otukpo fiesta but quickly metamorphosed to an Idoma cultural festival due its appeal, uniqueness and originality.

How To Participate in Ech’Ija

Ech’Ija is open to all Idoma Sons and Daughters around the world, for it is a celebration of our oneness and unity, it is also opened to all the people who live and enjoy the beauty of the people and the socio-cultural life of Idomaland.

Therefore, participation is basically being available, joining the processions and activities with a merry heart. You can make it a merrier Ech’Ija for yourself and loved ones by buying the branded Ech’Ija T-shirts and various costumes that are available to all our people.

If you are an Artisan and you want to display your artwork during the exhibition on the 27th December Picnic, you reach Da Vinci on his number to register.

Ech’Ija This Year …

Ech’Ija in 2020 is full of activities for everyone and it goes beyond a day! Ech’Ija 2020 starts on the 27th of December 2020 with the Old-School Picnic and culminates by 28th December 2020 with the Carnival Procession.

Some of the activities slated for the December 27th Ech’Ija Picnic are;

GAMES

Suwe

Ten-Ten (Ogah)

Geren-Geren (Bicycle/Motorcycle Wheel Ridding)

Olo (Snail Shell Games)

Ball-U

Counter/Table top Games (Crown cocks)

Iche

Cashew Nuts

Tug of War

Kite... etc.

FOOD N DRINKS

Traditional Delicacies

Okoho

Ijangada

Ikpoho (Okro Soup)

Pounded yam

Ibeh (Amala)

Roasted yam with red oil

Okpehe Rice

Palmwine

Brukutu

Enyi (Gruel)

Enyi Okwola (Hot Gruel)...

Exhibition of works by Idoma artisans

Some of the activities slated for the December 27th Ech’Ija Picnic are;

- Gatherings of different groups and masquerades at the Otada/Upu Road Junction close to Otukpo Stadium

- Take off of procession from Och’Idoma’s Palace via various routes

- Celebration and dance performances at the Och’Idoma’s Palace

- Royal Welcome/Charge

- Opening Speech

- Awards Ceremonies

- More Celebrations

OTADA IN THE GRIP OF THE MALUMFASHI SAGE.

9 Mar, 2021

OTADA IN THE GRIP OF THE MALUMFASHI SAGE.

In the middle of 2020, I drove a friend to the then sleepy settlement of Otada at the northern fringe of Otukpo town. Our mission was to see the take-off site of the Federal University of Health Sciences, the most discussed issue on the lips of Idoma people at the time. What we saw was the sorry sight of a completely abandoned, unkept, dilapidated, unused, and forgotten superstructure of an edifice which must have been the product of a well conceptualized and articulated idea of a multipurpose Youth Resources Center. My friend only shook his shinny bald held in bewilderment (probably wondering how such a popularized medical University was going to possibly take off from the dungeon I just pointed at) and continued his journey to the land of the rising sun.

Fast forward to February 2021, and I put an elated call through to the same friend of mine to ''come and see America wonder'' at Otada.

The same take-off dungeon now miraculously transformed. Right from the gate, it is absolutely clear that some serious heads and hands must have been at work.

The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo(with permanent site at Akwete-Akpa) has really taken off at a well fortified and security wired parameter fenced site at Otada. Very visible inside the yard are resplendently looking arrays of buildings. The Multipurpose/Lecture Halls Block has a panache that seems to beckon passersby to behold what it houses. The Administrative Building is no less attractive. Yours sincerely was however awed with what stands as the Office of The Provost. Entering it is to be immediately transported to somewhere outside Nigeria, where things work.

A short walk around the take-off site of FUHSO at Otada would easily conjure the idea of maximum utilization of minimum space. Other massive colourful buildings sitting inside the compound, which is adequately lit by numerous solar lights stands, include an Academic Building, General Labor

Credit: steve anyebe.

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