By Austin Ogah
EDUMOGA is one of the largest districts in Zone C, Benue State, in both land size and population. Situated in the heart of the Idoma-speaking region, it holds significant cultural, agricultural, and historical importance in the state. Edumoga stands as a beacon of potentials, with its people renowned for their hard work, commitment to progress and unadulterated generosity.
Despite its vast agricultural resources and its contribution to the economy of Benue State, Edumoga has faced significant challenges in terms of infrastructure and governance. The district has, overtime, been largely neglected by government initiatives, which has hindered its growth and development. Edumoga is a land blessed with fertile soil and vast stretches of arable land. From the farm plains of Ojigo and Ingle/Okpale to the fertile lands that extend through Eke, Amejo, and Okonobo to Ugbokolo, Edumoga is a place of agricultural economy, and therefore the hub of agro-based businesses in Zone C, with its vast land driving the livelihoods of countless farmers, especially women and youths who contribute significantly to the economic vibrancy of the region.
During the 8 years of the Governor Samuel Ortom administration, the people of Edumoga suffered from a lack of strategic government intervention. Instead of seeing infrastructure development and policy initiatives that would uplift their lives, Edumoga became known for the killings of its people in Igama, Omusu, and other villages. The region became increasingly vulnerable, and the policies enacted during that time did little to protect the people from external threats.
The district’s agricultural wealth contributes greatly to the GDP of Benue State, as the Idoma people, particularly of Edumoga origin, are known for their ingenuity in farming. The district is home to various crops, including cassava, yam, maize, rice, etc., all of which are grown in abundance. These agricultural endeavors form the backbone of the region’s trade and commerce. Edumoga, therefore, stands as an important player in Benue’s food production capacity, making it an invaluable asset to the state’s economy.
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Beyond its agricultural wealth, Edumoga is deeply rooted in the cultural history of the Idoma people. The Idoma culture is rich in traditions, festivals, and historical significance. From the ancient sites and forests that typify the communities, Edumoga is a repository of Idoma history, with folklore, art, and music playing a central role in the lives of its people. These cultural traditions are celebrated in various festivals throughout the year, where the people come together to honor their heritage, and sometimes also seek to preserve their customs and beliefs.
Among the prominent figures in Idoma culture is Innocent Idibia, popularly known as Tuface (Tubaba), a globally recognized musician and icon. Also, actresses like Meg Otanwa and Linda John in the Nollywood space have showcased super talents and distinctions. Their roots in Edumoga have brought international attention to the district, highlighting the potential for greatness that lies within the region.
These artists are not only a symbol of the district’s cultural heritage but also beacons of inspiration for the youth of Edumoga. In recent times, the district has also gained attention for the social media antics of Mr. Hyacinth Ogwuche, also known as Che Rex, the self-acclaimed Chief Priest of Okonobo Forest. His comical antics on social media have entertained many, showcasing the vibrant and spirited nature of Edumoga’s people. Che Rex’s influence, although humorous, represents the richness of the district’s social life and the unity that exists among the people.
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One of the most striking features of Edumoga is its human capital. The district has produced individuals who have excelled in various fields, demonstrating that the potential for greatness in Edumoga is boundless. Such individuals are a testament to the district’s ability to produce leaders, thinkers, and professionals who can contribute significantly to the development of the state and nation. Edumoga’s human resources, however, remain underutilized due to the lack of strategic government intervention and infrastructure development.
In recent news, the Benue State government has allocated about N149.5b to address infrastructure dearth in the state. It is our hope that the Ekeh-Olengbecho road project will be included in this allocation. If it is not, then we humbly appeal to Governor Alia to prioritize this critical infrastructure. The completion of this road would not only improve the economic conditions of Edumoga but also contribute significantly to the overall development of Benue State.
Despite the district’s natural and human resources, Edumoga has struggled with development. For many years, the people of Edumoga have relied on self-help initiatives to improve their living conditions. These self-help projects, though commendable, but have often been inadequate in addressing the broader development needs of the district. Self-help initiatives are good ideas, but they are most effective when complemented by government interventions. Unfortunately, Edumoga has largely been overlooked in terms of government projects and initiatives.
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During the 8 years of the Governor Samuel Ortom administration, the people of Edumoga suffered from a lack of strategic government intervention. Instead of seeing infrastructure development and policy initiatives that would uplift their lives, Edumoga became known for the killings of its people in Igama, Omusu, and other villages. The region became increasingly vulnerable, and the policies enacted during that time did little to protect the people from external threats.
Governor Ortom’s policies, especially his aggressive stance against the Fulani herdsmen, while aimed at securing the state, unfortunately had negative consequences for the people of Edumoga. The district’s already impoverished communities became even more vulnerable, with little support or protection from the government. Although, on the other hand, former Governor Gabriel Suswam’s earlier tenure saw some strategic interventions, including the construction of the road linking Utonkon to Okpoga – the headquarters of Okpokwu LGA. This road significantly eased the movement of goods and people, benefiting peasant farmers in especially Ojigo and Ingle/Okpale wards.
Unfortunately, the road soon deteriorated due to substandard work and the increased traffic from heavy-duty vehicles that diverted from using the already dilapidated Otukpo-Enugu expressway at that time. Since then, no significant infrastructure development has occurred in Edumoga.
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One of the most pressing issues still facing Edumoga is the state of its road network. The people of Edumoga have long struggled with a lack of accessible roads, which hampers their economic activities. A prime example of this is the road linking Ekeh Olengbecho through Ogodumu, Olaidu, Ojigo, and Ojapo to Efeche (known as Ekeh-Olengbecho Road). This approximately 40-kilometer road has long been a vital feeder road for the district, but it has since collapsed to the point of being nearly impassable.
The condition of this road has become so bad that the people of Edumoga have had to rely on self-help initiatives to repair it, often manually filling the multiplicity of very bad spots especially during rainy seasons. However, such efforts are not sustainable and do not address the root cause of the problem. Not too long ago, Barrister Chris Idu, a former caretaker chairman of Okpokwu LGA, used earth-moving equipment to grade the road, which brought much-needed relief to the people. His effort was widely cherished, and the people of Edumoga still hold him in good esteem to this day.
The people of Edumoga, who have long relied on self-help initiatives, are in dire need of government support to improve their living conditions. The Ekeh-Olengbecho road project is a critical step in transforming the district’s economy and improving the livelihoods of its people. We hope that Governor Alia will heed this call and prioritize this project for the betterment of Edumoga and its people.
It is therefore imperative that the attention of Governor Hyacinth Alia be drawn to this pressing issue. The construction of the Ekeh-Olengbecho road is not just about improving the district’s road network; it is about transforming the lives of the people. A proper road network would connect a large population, facilitate trade, reduce post-harvest losses, and eliminate the “bush market syndrome” that has plagued the region for years.
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Furthermore, the project would necessitate the relocation of Ekeh Market at Olengbecho, which has been in operation since the late 1930s, thus modernizing the district’s trading infrastructure.
In recent news, the Benue State government has allocated about N149.5b to address infrastructure dearth in the state. It is our hope that the Ekeh-Olengbecho road project will be included in this allocation. If it is not, then we humbly appeal to Governor Alia to prioritize this critical infrastructure. The completion of this road would not only improve the economic conditions of Edumoga but also contribute significantly to the overall development of Benue State.
Edumoga is a land blessed with resources, culture, and people who are eager to thrive. However, without the right infrastructure and government support, the district’s potentials will remain untapped or underutilized. Governor Alia has an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in Edumoga by addressing the district’s infrastructural needs, starting with the Ekeh-Olengbecho road project.
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Edumoga is a district with immense potential, but its growth has been stunted by the lack of government attention and infrastructural development. The district’s agricultural wealth, cultural significance, and human capital are yet to be fully harnessed due to inadequate policies and interventions.
The people of Edumoga, who have long relied on self-help initiatives, are in dire need of government support to improve their living conditions. The Ekeh-Olengbecho road project is a critical step in transforming the district’s economy and improving the livelihoods of its people. We hope that Governor Alia will heed this call and prioritize this project for the betterment of Edumoga and its people.
Ogah, a Finance & Investment Consultant writes from Abuja
