As Benue State prepares to mark 50 years of its creation in February 2026, the Idoma people of Benue South Senatorial District have renewed their long-standing call to produce the state’s governor. Since Benue was carved out of the old Benue-Plateau State in 1976, no Idoma person has ever been elected governor. This has continued to fuel feelings of political exclusion among the Idoma, the state’s second-largest ethnic group, especially as the 2027 governorship election draws closer.

Historically, the governorship of Benue State has remained in Tiv-dominated Zones A and B. From Aper Aku in 1979 to the current governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, all elected governors have emerged from Tiv-speaking areas. Idoma leaders argue that this unbroken pattern has denied Benue South a sense of belonging and fairness. Even respected Tiv elders, including the late Wantaregh Paul Unongo, had publicly supported the idea of an Idoma governor to promote unity and balance in the state.

Despite repeated attempts by Idoma politicians to clinch the governorship ticket over the years, internal disunity and vote-splitting have often weakened their chances. Analysts say Benue politics is driven largely by numbers, with the Tiv controlling more local governments. However, many believe that unity among Idoma leaders, consensus on a single candidate, and strong alliances across zones could change the narrative ahead of 2027.

As new Idoma aspirants signal interest in the 2027 race, the agitation has grown louder and more organised. Stakeholders insist the struggle is no longer just about power, but about equity, inclusion and trust in the Benue project. Whether history will finally change remains uncertain, but 50 years on, the Idoma demand for the governorship is gaining renewed momentum.