One Voice, One Destiny: Och’Idoma’s Royal Blessing Ignites Arc. Obekpa’s Historic 2027 Mission to Reclaim Benue

By Comrade Amb victor M Olajide 

NEWS. SPORTS. ENTERTAINMENT 

In a momentous display of tradition, reverence, and political resolve Arc. Anthony Ejeh Obekpa, a prominent governorship aspirant for Benue State in the 2027 elections, has received the profound royal blessings of His Royal Majesty, the Och’Idoma, Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, at the sacred Och’Idoma Palace in Otukpo.

This auspicious courtesy visit marked the formal declaration of Arc. Obekpa's gubernatorial ambition to the paramount traditional ruler and spiritual custodian of the Idoma Nation. The endorsement from this highly revered institution carries immense cultural and symbolic weight, signaling divine favor and ancestral approval for his vision to lead Benue toward renewal and prosperity.

Addressing journalists immediately after the audience, Arc. Obekpa expressed deep gratitude and renewed determination:

"I deliberately chose to commence my wide-ranging consultations with the Idoma Nation this year, beginning with the most respected stakeholders in our land. It was an immense honor to receive the royal blessings and paternal encouragement from the exalted throne of the Och’Idoma, the paramount custodian of our Idoma heritage and identity.

These sacred blessings, bestowed today at the heart of our kingdom in Otukpo, have fortified my spirit and reinforced my unwavering commitment to rescue Benue State from the cycle of hardship, neglect, and insecurity that has plagued our people for far too long."

Arc. Obekpa articulated a bold, comprehensive agenda centered on **total deliverance** from the stagnation gripping the state. He emphasized three interlocking pillars critical to Benue's revival:

Economic revitalization** — unlocking opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and attracting investment to lift families out of poverty.

Agricultural transformation— restoring Benue's rightful place as the "Food Basket of the Nation" by protecting farmlands, introducing modern techniques, ensuring access to inputs, markets, and value chains.

Restoration of lasting security — confronting head-on the devastating scourge of herders-farmers clashes, banditry, kidnapping, and violent incursions that have disproportionately ravaged Idoma communities in the Middle Belt.

He lamented the disproportionate suffering endured by the Idoma people:

"Many Nigerians remain unaware of the severity of insecurity in Idoma land compared to other regions. Our communities have borne an unbearable toll—countless lives lost, vast farmlands abandoned or destroyed, properties razed, and families displaced by relentless attacks from armed herders, bandits, and kidnappers. This must end. My foremost priority as governor will be to eradicate these threats, secure every inch of our territory, restore peace, and enable our farmers to return to their ancestral lands without fear."

Turning to his kinsmen in Benue South Senatorial District (Zone C), Arc. Obekpa delivered a passionate appeal for unity:

"To my brothers and sisters in Zone C: We have endured too much pain, marginalization, and unfulfilled promises. Yet division has been our greatest enemy. A fragmented voice will never command the respect or secure the leadership positions we deserve in Benue State. I humbly urge every son and daughter of Idoma land to rise above personal interests, old rivalries, and narrow loyalties. Let us speak with **one powerful, united voice. Only through unbreakable solidarity can we translate our numerical strength and moral right into tangible political power and equitable development. Together, we shall reclaim our destiny."

As he embarks on this noble journey under the inspiring banner of BUILDING A BENUE FOR ALL, Arc. Obekpa acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge ahead while reaffirming his deep faith:

"I am acutely aware that the road to 2027 is demanding and requires collective sacrifice. That is precisely why I place supreme value on the prayers, counsel, and backing of our revered spiritual leaders, traditional institutions, and the grassroots. The joyful and heartfelt blessings I received today from the Och’Idoma have ignited fresh fire in my soul.

With integrity as my compass, courage as my shield, and a clear vision for inclusive progress, I am more resolute than ever. As we approach the critical 2026 primaries and the 2027 general elections, I stand firm in the conviction that this calling is divinely orchestrated. With your steadfast support, the grace of Almighty God, and the unity of our people, victory is not merely possible—it is inevitable.

I declare with unshakable faith: We are unstoppable.

Thank you, and may God richly bless the resilient, hardworking, and great people of Benue State.