The Idoma Association USA (IAUSA) has resolved to petition United States President Donald Trump over the persistent killings, displacement and deteriorating security situation in Benue South Senatorial District and other parts of Benue State.

The resolution was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s 30th Annual Convention held in Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States, with the theme, “Building Unity Through Accountability.”

The convention, which brought together delegates, traditional leaders, government representatives and members of the Idoma diaspora, expressed grave concern over what it described as persistent insecurity, incessant killings and the displacement of innocent residents in Benue South and other communities across the state.

The association called on the Federal Government, Benue State Government and security agencies to take decisive and sustained measures to protect lives and restore peace in affected communities.

It said the continued loss of lives must not be allowed to become normalised, stressing the need for urgent action to address the security and humanitarian challenges confronting the people.

According to the communiqué, the convention approved the submission of a formal petition to Trump to draw international attention to the killings, displacement and humanitarian situation in Benue South.

The petition, it said, would seek greater international attention and appropriate humanitarian and diplomatic support for communities affected by insecurity.

The association also resolved to pursue engagements aimed at securing an opportunity for the Och’Idoma V, His Royal Majesty Agaba’Idu John Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji, to present the security and humanitarian concerns of the Idoma people before relevant members and committees of the United States Congress.

IAUSA said it would intensify international advocacy on the situation in Benue South through sustained engagement with governments, international organisations, human rights institutions, policymakers and the media.

It stressed that its advocacy would remain factual and responsible, with emphasis on securing practical outcomes for affected communities.

The convention acknowledged the presence of Statesman J. P. Paige of Norfolk, Virginia, who conveyed the solidarity of the people of Norfolk with the Idoma Nation.

Paige, according to the communiqué, also expressed his personal commitment to assist in facilitating the delivery of the association’s petition to the US President.

Beyond its international advocacy efforts, IAUSA resolved to organise a medical mission to Nigeria in December 2026 to provide free medical consultations, healthcare services, medications and health education to underserved communities across Idoma land.

The association said the planned intervention was intended to complement its advocacy efforts, stressing that the diaspora’s voice must be matched by tangible assistance to people affected by the challenges at home.

On leadership and elections, the convention reaffirmed the importance of integrity in leadership and public service, urging current and prospective leaders to uphold accountability, transparency and selfless service. It also resolved to undertake voter education and civic awareness programmes ahead of forthcoming elections.

The association urged voters in Benue South to assess political candidates based on integrity, competence, accountability, vision and proven character, rather than ethnicity, political affiliation or financial inducement.

IAUSA further reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term development of Idoma land through initiatives focused on healthcare, education, youth empowerment, economic growth and cultural preservation.

It called for stronger collaboration among traditional institutions, government, diaspora groups, civil society organisations and Idoma communities, saying the challenges confronting the people were too serious to be undermined by personal, political or sectional differences.

The convention also passed a unanimous vote of confidence in the leadership of IAUSA President, Prince Dr Edwin Ochai, and the entire Executive Committee for what it described as their dedication, transparency and effective stewardship.

It resolved that the next Annual Convention of the Idoma Association USA would be held in Canada.

The association said the ultimate test of the Virginia Beach convention would not be the speeches delivered but the actions that follow them. (Sunday Tribune)

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