By Amos Aar
THE IDOMA Area Traditional Council has issued a security alert ahead of the 2025 Easter celebrations, citing credible intelligence reports indicating plans by armed herdsmen to launch coordinated attacks across Zone C of Benue State.
In a press statement attributed to the Council’s Secretary and shared with journalists in Makurdi via WhatsApp, the Council expressed deep concern over emerging threats allegedly aimed at disrupting the Easter festivities in the region.
According to the statement, intelligence suggests that worship centers and other vulnerable locations within the nine local government areas (LGAs) that constitute the Idoma geopolitical area may be targeted.
“The armed herdsmen have declared that the people of Zone C will not celebrate this year’s Easter in peace,” the statement read. “They have mobilized in large numbers and are reportedly stationed at strategic locations across Benue State.”
The Council identified some of the suspected camps as being located in parts of Agatu, Apa, and Otukpo LGAs, while withholding details of other locations for security reasons.
It further warned that the anticipated attacks may either be coordinated or occur as isolated incidents, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance.
In response to the threat, the Council has placed all nine LGAs under high alert and called for increased surveillance across all communities in the region.
“All Local Government Chairmen, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), security agencies, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and residents are urged to adopt proactive security measures and remain vigilant,” the statement advised.
The Council also recommended that Easter celebrations this year be observed in a subdued manner, with emphasis on caution and public safety.
The statement concluded with a message of unity and resilience: “God bless the Idoma Nation. The Idoma people must remain united in the face of these persistent challenges.”
The announcement has generated significant concern among residents and local leaders, with renewed calls on the relevant security agencies to take swift and decisive action to prevent any breach of peace in the region.
As of the time of filing this report, no official response has been issued by the state or federal security authorities.
