Central Union of Idoma People in Utonkon District Pays Courtesy Call to Ado Local Government Chairman
The Central Union of Idoma People in Utonkon District, also known as the Idoma General Congress (IGC), paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Ado Local Government, Hon. Engr. Sunny Oche on Sunday, April 13, 2025. The visit, which took place at the Chairman’s country home, served as an opportunity to congratulate him on his electoral victory on October 5, 2024, and to express their unwavering support for his administration and that of Benue State Governor, Revd. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia (Ph.D).
Led by Chief Samuel Echono (Ochidoma of Ado), the delegation included key members of the IGC including Mr. Patrick Ogbaje (Vice Chairman), Vincent Ogbole (Secretary), David Okoh (Treasurer), Mr. Gabriel Ogoh (Patron) and District representatives. They highlighted their long-standing involvement in electoral processes, consistently delivering significant voter turnout in past elections, yet often lacking direct access to government palliative measures. The delegation expressed their satisfaction with the Chairman’s open-door policy and inclusive approach, praising his commitment to the people of Ado Local Government.
Several speakers emphasized the need for greater unity among the Idoma people in Utonkon District, noting the stronger sense of cohesion often observed among Idoma communities outside Benue State. Madam Rose Oche, the Chairman’s Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs, particularly encouraged an end to internal divisions while Mr. Oche Onoja urged the group to take the urgent need for unification very seriously. The group pledged their commitment to fostering unity and collaboration.
As a gesture of goodwill, the IGC presented the Chairman with gifts, including yam, palm wine, beer, and kolanuts. Hon. Engr. Sunny Oche expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the historical significance of the visit and the group’s voting power. He reminisced about his youth in Utonkon and expressed concern over the state of local schools that were in good shape back in the days and numbers of personalities groomed within the four walls of the institutions of learning promising to take steps toward their improvement. He encouraged the IGC to formalize their organization through the registration of a cooperative society to facilitate access to government support and bank loans, especially for agricultural ventures. He also called for the unification of all Idoma groups under a single umbrella.
The meeting concluded in a convivial atmosphere, marked by reminiscences and a shared sense of community. Innocent Igelle, the Principal Private Secretary to The Chairman reported.
