The Idoma Association USA (IAUSA) has formally resolved to petition United States President Donald Trump and to seek engagements with members of the US Congress over the persistent killings and displacement of communities in Benue South Senatorial District and other parts of Benue State. The decision was reached during the association's 30th Annual Convention held in Virginia Beach, Virginia, under the theme "Building Unity Through Accountability."
Convention Communiqué Details
The convention brought together delegates, traditional rulers, government representatives, and members of the Idoma diaspora. A communiqué issued at the end of the gathering expressed "grave concern over the persistent insecurity, incessant killings, and displacement of innocent citizens" in Benue South, adding that "such loss of life must never be normalised."
The communiqué directed that the petition to the US President draw attention to the killings, displacement, and humanitarian conditions facing the region, with a view to attracting "greater international attention and appropriate humanitarian and diplomatic support." The association also confirmed plans to secure 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 committees of the US Congress.
Advocacy and Solidarity
The convention acknowledged the presence of Statesman J. P. Paige of Norfolk, Virginia, who conveyed solidarity from the people of Norfolk with the Idoma Nation and pledged personal support in facilitating the delivery of the petition to the US President.
IAUSA said its international advocacy would remain "factual, responsible, and directed towards practical outcomes," involving sustained engagement with governments, international organisations, human rights bodies, policymakers, and the media. The association stressed that "advocacy and practical intervention must advance together, so that the voice of the diaspora is matched by measurable relief in the lives of our people at home."
Medical Mission and Domestic Priorities
In addition to its advocacy efforts, IAUSA resolved to organise a medical mission to Nigeria in December 2026, offering free consultations, medications, healthcare services, and health education to underserved communities across Idoma land.
On governance, the convention called on leaders to uphold "accountability, transparency, and selfless service" and urged voters in Benue South to judge candidates by integrity and competence rather than ethnicity, political affiliation, or financial inducement. IAUSA also committed to voter education and civic awareness campaigns ahead of forthcoming elections.
Leadership Confidence and Future Plans
The convention passed a unanimous vote of confidence in IAUSA President Prince Dr Edwin Ochai and the entire executive committee for their leadership. It also confirmed that the association's next annual convention would be held in Canada.
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State hosted some lawmakers from the United States who were in the state to discuss the security situation in the region. The governor disclosed that their "discussions focused on the security and humanitarian challenges in Benue and the North Central region, and the urgent need for sustainable peace, justice, and security for our people."
