IDA Condemns Killings in Agatu, Abduction of JAMB Candidates

IDA Condemns Killings in Agatu, Abduction of JAMB Candidates

The Idoma Development Association (IDA) has strongly denounced the recent wave of violent attacks in parts of Benue State, particularly the killings in Agatu Local Government Area and the abduction of commuters, including candidates of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), along the Otukpo axis.

Benue State

In a statement signed by Christian Ekre on behalf of the association, IDA described the incidents as deeply disturbing, noting that the persistent loss of lives and worsening insecurity have left many communities in fear.

The group expressed concern over repeated attacks in Agatu, where several residents have reportedly been killed, displaced, or forced to flee their homes due to ongoing violence.

IDA also condemned the kidnapping of students travelling to sit for their UTME, describing it as a “cruel and senseless act” that threatens the future of the younger generation.

Reacting to the development, the National President of IDA, Alex Odoh, said the situation poses a grave threat to peace and the survival of the Idoma people.

“We are deeply disturbed by the continued loss of lives in our communities. These repeated assaults are unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue unchecked.

“The abduction of young students on their way to secure their future is particularly heartbreaking and speaks to the level of insecurity we now face,” he said.

Odoh further stressed that the association would not remain silent while communities are turned into “zones of fear and bloodshed,” urging authorities to respond with urgency.

The association called on the Benue State Government and security agencies to step up efforts to rescue the abducted victims, bring perpetrators to justice, and strengthen security in vulnerable areas.

“The Idoma nation deserves to live in peace, to farm without fear, to travel safely, and to pursue education without threat. Anything short of this is a failure of responsibility,” Odoh added.

IDA also urged both federal and state governments to move beyond routine condemnations and implement lasting solutions to tackle the root causes of insecurity in the region.

The association reaffirmed its solidarity with affected families and communities, pledging to continue advocating for justice, safety, and the protection of lives and property across Idoma land.