Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has assured the Idoma people that the selection of the new Och’Idoma will be transparent.
Governor Ortom gave the assurance Friday, November 12th, 2021 during a condolence visit at the temporary abode of the Acting Ochi’Doma, George Edeh and the entire Idoma Area Traditional Council in Otukpo.
The condolence visit followed the hunting expedition embarked on by the Ochi’Doma IV, Agaba-Idu, Elias Ikoyi Obekpa about a month ago.
Governor Ortom said a meeting of stakeholders from Benue State will soon be convened to kickstart the selection process, saying the laws guiding the process will strictly be followed.
He pledged the support of his administration to the acting Ochi’Doma and for a hitch-free succession process.
Governor Ortom, accompanied by the State Deputy Governor, Benson Abounu and other members of the State Executive Council also visited the family of Chief Obekpa where he also pledged his support as an adopted son in the family.
The acting Ochi’Doma, Engr George Edeh described the Governor’s visit as a show of love to the entire Idoma nation, having sent his Deputy earlier, when the monarch went on hunting expedition.
He thanked the Governor for the provision of a temporary abode for him as a befitting Palace is being reconstructed for the Idoma paramount king.
At the palace of the Ochi’Doma, his eldest son, Prince Ada Obekpa thanked the Governor for his concern for the family, saying they were extremely happy that he found time to visit them in their trying moment.
Prince Obekpa also expressed happiness that Benue State was blessed with Governor Ortom for being a God-fearing and a good example in leadership who is ready to stand up for his people.
