The group expressed concern over stories of armed herders brandishing sophisticated weaponry without being restricted by security officials.
The people of Idoma lineage, living in the United State of America under the aegis of The Idoma Association USA, have condemned the continued attacks on some Benue State communities by suspected herdsmen.
The group, in a press statement released on Sunday berated the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government for making the residents of Benue State defenceless going by the incessant attacks on their houses and farm lands by the herders.
The group expressed concern over stories of armed herders brandishing sophisticated weaponry without being restricted by security officials.
According to reports, no fewer than 500 people were killed and numerous others were missing after suspected herders launched coordinated attacks on villages in the state's Apa, Otukpo, and Agatu local government areas.
The most recent wave of violence has demolished multiple communities, including Ogwumogbo, Ikpele, Ejima, Okokolo, Olegomakwu, Olegonyilo, Nahem, Ocholonya, Abugbe, Ugboju, Odugbeho, and Olegobidu, and claimed many lives.
Speaking on this, Prince Edwin Ochai, president of The Idoma Association USA, described the incident as sad and unfortunate.
He said it is unacceptable that “our people are left defenseless, homes destroyed, and farm produce decimated.”
He decried the state and federal governments' deafening silence on the ongoing attacks on the Idoma community.
He urged the appropriate security authorities to intervene and take urgent measures to put an end to the attacks that have transformed Benue South into a killing field.
He said, “It is with a heavy heart and profound concern that I address you today regarding the ongoing atrocities in Benue South Senatorial District, particularly in Apa, Otukpo, Agatu and other local government areas in Benue South Senatorial District.
“The recent wave of killings and displacement of innocent villagers by suspected herdsmen is not only heartbreaking but also a clear violation of the right to life and security.
“We, the Idoma Association USA, vehemently condemn these attacks and the deafening silence of the security agencies responsible for defending our people.
“The reports of armed attackers wielding sophisticated weapons without any restriction from security personnel are deeply disturbing.
“It is disheartening to witness the apparent support for the perpetrators and the prevention of locals from defending themselves.
“We stand in solidarity with the local vigilante groups who bravely try to protect their communities despite the odds stacked against them.
“Their lamentations in the video highlight the urgent need for intervention and support.
“We, therefore, call on all sons and daughters of Idoma land, both within and outside the borders of Nigeria, to unite and rally behind our local vigilantes in their quest to end these senseless killings.
“It is unacceptable that our people are left defenseless, homes destroyed, and farm produce decimated. We are aware of the efforts of the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Hycainth Alia, and the Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Abba Moro, towards resolving the impunity of the marauding herdsmen and their constraints.
“We, however, urge them not to relent in bringing a lasting end to this carnage and to take proactive steps towards bringing this dastardly act to a total halt.
“We implore the Federal Government of Nigeria to step in promptly and take decisive action to bring an end to these heartless attacks that have turned our land into a killing field.
“The safety and well-being of our fellow Idoma citizens must be prioritized, and justice must prevail. We urge our members to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and engage in advocacy efforts to ensure that the voices of the victims are heard and that lasting solutions are implemented.”