The newly inaugurated leadership of the Ochetoha K’Idoma Forum an influential socio-cultural institution for the Idoma people has launched a multi-pronged advocacy campaign aimed at securing robust infrastructure development, stronger security measures, and youth empowerment across Idoma communities .
Led by President-General Prof. Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, the Forum held a strategic meeting with Och’Idoma V, His Royal Majesty Agaba Idu, at the historic Otukpo palace. The gathering emphasized collaborative action rooted in tradition and modern governance .
During the palace visit, the monarch underscored the throne’s enduring role as “the moral compass and custodian of legitimacy” for all Idoma institutions. He urged the Forum to advance infrastructure enhancements, preserve cultural values, and be a powerful voice for marginalized groups .He advised, “When you speak, let your words resonate with wisdom and the weight of history… Go and succeed with my blessing.”
Prof. Ochefu outlined the Forum’s five-point agenda that includes , Unity and cultural preservation, Policy advocacy on security and infrastructure, Youth development through education and innovation, Collaborations with government and private sector for economic rejuvenation.
Further, the Forum convened with chairmen of the five LGAs in Benue South (Agatu, Apa, Ogbadibo, Okpokwu, Otukpo), signaling a united front to tackle region-wide development challenges.
Prof. Ochefu added that leveraging existing local assets such as the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, the Otobi Dam, and the Oju Road corridor can fast-track socioeconomic progress when matched with coordinated advocacy.
The Forum’s engagement with the Och’Idoma ensures that development efforts have both cultural legitimacy and institutional support.Municipal-level buy-in from local government chairmen underscores the critical need for a holistic, community-wide growth agenda.
Focused investment in roads, education, and public utilities can significantly uplift living standards and economic opportunity in Benue South.
By fusing cultural stewardship, political outreach, and strategic planning, the Ochetoha K’Idoma Forum’s leadership is repositioning itself as a central player in shaping the future of Benue South potentially laying the groundwork for more holistic and community-inclusive development.
