By Victor Okoye
Otukpo, June 1, 2025 – History was made in Otukpo at the weekend as Professor Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, a distinguished scholar and former Vice-Chancellor, was elected President-General of Ochetoha K’Idoma, the foremost socio-cultural organisation of the Idoma Nation.
The election, which took place during the body’s 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM), marked the beginning of a new chapter for one of Nigeria’s most resilient ethnic nationalities.
Held at Leach Hotel on David Mark Way, the AGM brought together delegates from across the country and the diaspora to deliberate on critical issues affecting the Idoma people. Chief among these were insecurity, youth unemployment, cultural decline, and the incomplete National Secretariat project.
Professor Ochefu, 65, who until recently served as Secretary-General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, took the reins from Air Vice Marshal Toni Adokwu (rtd.), whose tenure between 2021 and 2025 was described by many as steady and foundational.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Ochefu didn’t mince words about the scale of the challenges before the Idoma Nation. “The setting in 2025 is different,” he said. “Security, employment for our youths, and the preservation of our culture—especially our language—must become front-burner issues. If we fail to act, history will ask where we stood.”
Referencing his 2010 address to the Forum where he posed the question, “Do the Idoma have a strategic plan for their development?” he remarked that while the answer then was a loud “No,” the time has now come to change that narrative. “We must develop a strategic blueprint that will define our direction over the next decade,” he declared.
The new President-General also emphasised the need for synergy between Ochetoha K’Idoma, the traditional institution led by the Och’Idoma, and other influential stakeholders including elected officials, technocrats, professionals, and the vast diaspora community. “We are not rivals; we are partners in the project of Idoma rebirth,” he said.
Beyond the inspiring speech, the AGM was not short on action. Delegates took far-reaching decisions, including a unanimous resolution to complete the National Secretariat project which has lingered for nearly two decades.
To this end, all registered members are now mandated to contribute a ₦5,000 monthly levy from July 2025 to June 2026. Branch executives were directed to sensitise members on the importance of the project and ensure compliance.
A particularly emotional point came during discussions on the worsening security situation across Idoma land.
Delegates decried the spate of kidnappings, herdsmen attacks, and violent crimes in Otukpo and other communities, warning that these threats have crippled farming activities and instilled widespread fear among the people.
“The time for silence is over,” the communique stated. “We must unite to defend our land and hold government accountable for the safety of our people.”
On youth leadership, the AGM nullified the recent election conducted by a faction within the Ochetoha Youth Wing, declaring it illegal and inconsistent with the directives of the National Executive.
A fresh, inclusive election was mandated to be conducted within the next quarter.
Other resolutions included expanding the digital footprint of the Forum, launching a 10-year socio-political and economic ao genda, and reviving development initiatives proposed in the 2023 Ogiri Okoh Memorial Lecture.
In addition to Prof. Ochefu, the AGM also elected a new team of national officers: Mrs. Pauline Ene Onoja Peder – Vice President; Chief Dr. Paul Samuel Edeh, Esq. – Secretary-General; Emmanuel Anebi Ongaji – Assistant Secretary-General; Mr. Otse David Egegwu – Financial Secretary; Mr. Ada Obande – Treasurer; Dr. Echeofu Agada – Public Relations Officer; Mr. Sam Edache – Auditor; Johnson Victor Eche, Esq. – Legal Adviser; and AVM Toni Adokwu (rtd.) – Ex-Officio.
The AGM commended the outgone executive for their years of service and affirmed Minna as the host for the 2026 Delegate Conference, while the 2027 Annual General Meeting will be hosted by the Zaria chapter.
While challenges remain, the emergence of a new leadership team under Prof. Ochefu signals a renewed momentum for the Forum.
Observers will be watching closely in the months ahead to see how the new administration translates its vision into tangible outcomes for the Idoma people.
