The Igede ethnic minority group in Benue state has expressed willingness to be excised from Benue and merged with the proposed Ogoja state to be carved out of Cross River state.
There has been growing agitation across several parts of Nigeria for the creation of more states to reflect ethnic, cultural, and developmental interests following the ongoing process for amending the constitution.
Speaking in an interview with Daily Post, the President of Igede Youth Development Association, Cletus Aruta, said the move would be in the best interest of the Igede nation, who according to him, have long suffered neglect and marginalisation in Benue state.
Aruta said, “If Igede can join the proposed Ogoja State, it will be better for us than remaining in Benue. We can’t go back to Egypt anymore.”
He said the desire for a new beginning under a more inclusive and development-oriented administration is a key motivation for the Igede people’s support for the state creation effort.
Aruta maintained that the current structure in Benue has failed to deliver equity, fairness, and infrastructural development to the Igede people, despite their population and contributions to the progress of the state.
The proposed Ogoja State is expected to be carved out from the northern part of Cross River State and adjoining areas, including willing communities from Benue, to form a new administrative and political entity.
Igede, is one of the minority tribes in Benue state that has allegedly suffered marginalisation in the hands of the Tiv, the dominant ethnic group that continues to dominate the politics and governance in the state.
