BY NONYELUM JULIET
Benue
The Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC) has dismissed reports in some online platforms alleging that it nullified chieftaincy titles purportedly conferred on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Mr. Adegbe Uloko, on behalf of the Och’Idoma V, Agaba-Idu Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, the Council described the reports as “false, baseless and malicious,” alleging that they were the handiwork of mischief makers bent on ridiculing the traditional institution.
The IATC clarified that the official list submitted by the Igede Intermediate Area Traditional Council ahead of the Igede Agba Festival on September 5–6 contained only 10 names. The names included Chief Sam Ode, Senator Seriake Dickson, Chief Patrick Ojechema Idoko, Rt. Hon. David Ogewu, Hon. Nelson Alapa, Hon. Francis Agbo Ottah, Bishop Pinot Ogbaji, Dr. David Amara, Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode and Mrs. Alice Ojugbo Ojowu.
“At no time did this list contain the name of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or that of the SGF”.
The Council recalled that on August 19, 2025, First Class Chief, HRH Ero Oga, was formally directed to suspend conferments, a directive reinforced by a general declaration of the Council on September 2 suspending all conferments across Intermediate Area Councils until further notice.
It therefore described as mischievous and criminal the suggestion that it nullified titles that were never considered.
“Those sponsoring such misinformation should note that their actions amount to criminal mischief and must desist forthwith,” the Council warned, urging the media not to be used to undermine traditional authority.
The IATC assured the Idoma people and Nigerians that it remains committed to upholding the dignity of the throne, preserving Idoma customs and supporting peace and development in Benue State and the country.
