Igede Ethnic Group Seeks to Break Away from Benue to Join Proposed Ogoja State

By Missang Akpet

The Igede ethnic group in Benue State has formally requested to separate from Benue and be incorporated into the proposed Ogoja State, which would be created from the present-day Cross River State. 

This appeal was made during a public hearing on the constitutional review process for the North-Central Geopolitical Zone held in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State.

Speaking on behalf of the Igede people, Ben Obega emphasized their historical ties to the old Ogoja Province in Cross River State. 

He explained that despite being administratively part of Benue State since 1976, the Igede people have consistently faced political marginalization within the state. Obega noted that no Igede indigene has ever been elected Governor or Senator, or appointed as a federal Minister, highlighting their exclusion from key leadership positions.

Obega appealed to the Constitutional Review Committee to approve their request, underscoring the importance of creating a constitution that truly represents all Nigerian communities. 

He stressed that granting their wish would demonstrate the government's commitment to inclusivity and fair representation for all ethnic groups in the country.