New Jersey, USA – August 11, 2024
The Idoma Association USA, a prominent socio-cultural group representing the Benue South Idoma natives in the United States, has strongly condemned the ongoing violence and killings occurring in their ancestral communities in Benue State, Nigeria. The association expressed deep concern over the persistent attacks in areas such as Apa, Agatu, and other parts of Idoma land, which have led to significant loss of life and disruption of livelihoods.
During the group’s 28th annual convention held in New Jersey on Saturday, Dr. Edwin Ochai, President of the Idoma Association USA, addressed the members and voiced the collective grief and frustration of the diaspora community. Dr. Ochai highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that the continuous loss of lives in their homeland has become increasingly worrisome and unacceptable.
"The Idoma Association USA stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Benue State who are facing unrelenting violence and insecurity," Dr. Ochai declared. "The killings in Apa, Agatu, and other parts of Idoma land have reached alarming levels, and it is heartbreaking to see our people suffer in this manner. We call on both the state and federal governments of Nigeria to take immediate and decisive action to put an end to this senseless violence."
The association's statement also emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to enhance security measures in the affected areas and to hold those responsible for the violence accountable. The Idoma Association USA urged international organizations and human rights groups to pay closer attention to the ongoing crisis in Benue State and to advocate for the protection of the lives and property of the affected communities.
The convention, which brought together Idoma natives from across the United States, served as a platform for discussing ways to support their homeland during these challenging times. The association reiterated its commitment to providing assistance to victims of the violence and to raising awareness about the plight of their people.
As the violence continues to escalate in Benue State, the diaspora community remains deeply connected to the struggles of their relatives back home, and they are determined to use their voice and resources to seek justice and peace for their ancestral land.
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