Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Godwin Obla, has raised strong concerns over what he calls long-standing marginalization of the Idoma people in Benue State. Speaking at the Idoma Hall of Fame Advisory Board Inaugural Dinner in Abuja, Obla stated that the time has come for the Idoma ethnic group to have a state of their own. He described the situation as needlessly unfair and said Idoma people have been sidelined since the creation of Benue State in 1976.
Obla expressed sadness over the political and leadership imbalance in the state. According to him, despite being one of Nigeria’s ethnic groups with deep cultural roots and historical significance, the Idoma community continues to face deliberate exclusion in governance. He pointed out that the Idoma occupy one entire senatorial district in Benue, yet they have remained underrepresented in major political positions and decision-making processes.
He stressed that the argument for an Idoma State is not driven by emotions but by fairness, equity, and justice. Obla explained that after decades of patience and loyalty to the Nigerian project, the Idoma people deserve a political structure where they can fully participate in governance. He further noted that the current situation contradicts the values previously defended by leaders in Benue who once fought for self-determination.
Obla argued that the treatment of the Idoma suggests they are not fully accepted in the state’s political arrangement. He said if the people are continually excluded, then seeking a separate state becomes a legitimate desire. According to him, giving the Idoma a state would strengthen unity, promote inclusion, and reflect the true principles of democracy.
His comments have renewed public debate on minority rights and state creation in Nigeria. Many observers believe the demand for an Idoma State could gain momentum as discussions around restructuring and equity in representation continue across the country. Supporters say now is the right time to address historical injustices and ensure all ethnic groups have fair political participation.
