The youth wing of Ochetoha K'Idoma, the apex socio-cultural organization representing the Idoma people, has strongly distanced itself from a rally held in support of President Bola Tinubu and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi on Thursday.
The rally, organized by self-described pro-Tinubu/Alia support groups, saw participants marching through major streets of the Benue State capital, carrying placards with inscriptions such as 'Tiv, Idoma, Igede support Tinubu', 'Idoma, Tiv, Igede Youths are proud of you Alia', and 'No Alia, No Benue'.
Comrade Mike Magaji, President of the Ochetoha K'Idoma youth wing, categorically denied any Idoma participation in the event, describing the demonstrators as "hired hungry people" who were paid to improve the public image of both the President and Governor.
Mourning Communities Reject Political Rally
"We can never be part of such a shameful outing. Those were hired hungry people who were paid to launder the image of Mr President and Alia," Magaji told BenriNews on Thursday evening.
The timing of the rally has drawn particular criticism, as it comes while many communities in Benue are still reeling from recent attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen, with victims receiving treatment in hospitals and families mourning their deceased loved ones.
"It is a shame. So, we, Idoma youths, disassociate ourselves from any support group. We were not part of it and can never be part of any rally in support of those who have failed to protect us," Magaji emphasized.
He further stated that it would be "stupid to think that we would support someone who is not protecting our lives and property."
The incident highlights growing tensions in Benue State, where security concerns, particularly related to farmer-herder conflicts, continue to be a significant issue affecting local communities.
The rally also appears to be campaigning for second terms for both President Tinubu and Governor Alia, despite the fact that both officials are still in their first terms of office.
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